Indoor 50 Watts Per Square Foot

[Muddy]

I've always been told that as a general rule of thumb, you need a minimum of 40 watts per sq. ft. in veg and 60 in flower. That was a pretty valid statement for HID lighting. I understand that doesn't take all the technicalities into account, but find it an easy way to give someone an idea of how much light they need. But what about the other forms of lighting we now use?

My experience growing under HID and LED has found that statement to be pretty accurate. I've got 40 watts of LED in one area and 48 in the other. The difference in the plants is pretty significant. I intend to up the 40 watt area to 60. I expect to see another marked improvement. So if someone asked me what I'd recommend for HID or LED, I'd feel comfortable telling them that they could get good results from 40 watts, but would recommend a minimum of 50, with 60 ideal. What about other types of lighting? Does that statement hold true?

 

[roadsidevendor1]

it may just be the good fortune of great genetics
but,all i have in a 2 x 4 tent is a 4 tube T-8 light
it is 18 inch wide x 48 inch long
has 4 6500k bulbs
total wattage is 128w
thats 16 watts per sq foot

---------- Post added 12-12-2011 at 11:18 PM ----------

but i would recommend at least 2x that amount
and maybe even supplemental lighting for taller
strains...as penetration seems to be lacking with T-8

 

[icrz4you]

just get a 1000watt hps and be done with it

 

[autobomb]

I dont know much about watts per square foot, I hope my input helps here, but i think candlelight is what too look at. or lumens. watts to lumens is different depending on the light... so MH/HPS/CFL/LED are all going to emit different light levels at different wattages by nature. Hence the supposed high efficiency of LED's. Also to take into consideration is the quality of the light, not just the power. Type of bulb, etc.

SOO without rambling, I believe you are spot on, and maybe this chart can help someone out there get an idea of the differences in efficiency.

http://www.eleekinc.com/eleekchart.pdf

This chart shows some things you may already know, but it at least goes to show how different each light source is, therefore justifying further research.

It also shows why I need to get a light meter.