Light intensity for in vitro culture (Seeds and Seedlings)

[Cach26]

Hello everyone

For Homemade Seedlings, for fun and to expand collection, in general how much light do they need (lux)

I have investigated and they only say "place 20 watt fluorescent tubes at 40cm" (document from 20 years ago) But they do not explain why, or how much light the seedlings should receive (Lux), other documents say that they should receive 1000 lux...

An Agronomist literally told me "the more light, the better", but he did not specify in measurements

I am cultivating in vitro Phrags, Paphs, Anguloas and Lycastes, but in general. I do not have special growth lights available for plants, only 18w and 100w Leds

Therefore, in lux, how much lux should they receive?

Any recommendation is received, I also read about the yellow light bulbs, but they produce heat

[katsucats]

According to Google, 1 foot candle = 10.764 lux. If I'm correct, Anguloas and Lycaste need about Cattleya levels, so that's about 2500-3500 fc. It helps to have a light meter, since the light produced at the bulb or a meter away (or whatever the measurement standard is) is not necessarily the amount of light that reaches the plants. Using wattage is misleading since LEDs have different efficiencies.

You could alternatively do a rough estimate with some trial and error if you can't get access to equipment. For example, take the 18w light and move it closer every day until it looks about right and isn't producing too much heat on the foliage. If it's not enough, then use the 100w and do the same. It's probably the case that in order to get optimal light for high light plants you might also need a fan so that the lights can get close enough without burning the leaves.

[Cach26]

Originally Posted by katsucats

According to Google, 1 foot candle = 10.764 lux. If I'm correct, Anguloas and Lycaste need about Cattleya levels, so that's about 2500-3500 fc. It helps to have a light meter, since the light produced at the bulb or a meter away (or whatever the measurement standard is) is not necessarily the amount of light that reaches the plants. Using wattage is misleading since LEDs have different efficiencies.

You could alternatively do a rough estimate with some trial and error if you can't get access to equipment. For example, take the 18w light and move it closer every day until it looks about right and isn't producing too much heat on the foliage. If it's not enough, then use the 100w and do the same. It's probably the case that in order to get optimal light for high light plants you might also need a fan so that the lights can get close enough without burning the leaves.

Ok, that's true, the thing is, I'm talking about in vitro cultures, not growing established plants and flowering size.😅

Because the protocorms don't have leaves yet XD