Expert: Mike Mascio - 11/4/2009

Question
Mike,
I am new to the growing era in central Mich.I have the privilage of growing in a greenhouse over the cooler season. I have recieved grow lights that were donated to us so im not sure of their names, they are blue and red in separate colors. I am currently growing salad greens, strawberries, tomatoes, and pepper plants. I would like to know how long i need to leave them on the plants for and at what distance away from the plants. Thank you
Regards Melissa

Answer
Gro-lights need to be on 10-12 hours per day when the seedlings are small; 8-10 hours once they develop their fourth set of leaves. They should always be kept at 3" above the top of the seedlings to ensure a stocky growth habit.

Good luck, and please write again if I can ever provide assistance.

Regards,

Mike