Indoor LED Lighting for next Think Different Grow - Need Advice

[Midwest2012]

Hey Folks,

I'm wrapping up a Think Different grow under two - 8 Bulb T-5's. I ran 4 of these ladies under each light.

The grow was done in soil (OF) and super roots air pots. Even though they have about 2 weeks left before flush and harvest, they yeild is already VERY impressive considering only under T5's. Because of this, I have decided to grow this strain again, and achieve even better results, so I'm switching my system (which I've wanted to do for a while anyway, to DWC and LED)

So this leads me to my question:

I can easily manage 8 to 10 large auto's in my grow area. I need recommendations to get excellent results for this same amount of plants.

I know I will at least need two large panels, but I want some recommendations on size, brand (to get a good bang for my buck) with the goal of putting 4 plants under each LED.

I've never even seen one in person, so I don't know how coverage area compares to my LEDs' (which have pretty good coverage.

For perfect light coverage, what are your recommendations to run 8 plants?

Appreciate any feedback!

Also, does anyone have a recommendation for an 8 bucket DWC system with main resivoir, that would include a ph controller? I see sooo many options on the net.. but love to get pointed towards a system from someone who has possibly put them to the test.

Thanks again for any feedback you leave. I appreciate it!

 

[SolAutoVapor]

I would love to see pictures of current your grow.

 

[big_buddha]

If you have cash to spare why not grab two apollo 20 units (2 rows of 10 modules per light) these lights are 4 foot long and a good replacement for your t8 fixtures. Visit cidly speak to a rep but I would recommend ordering a custom spectrum. Grow Northern seem to have a VERY nice spectrum dialled in if you need inspiration.... you should be able to get two of those lights delivered for around $1400-1500 and they will be consuming over 1500watts of actual power draw. No point fannying around with 4 or 5 200watt LEDS trying to get cover and penetration

 

[Midwest2012]

I would love to see pictures of current your grow.

Here is current grow under T5's

 

[Muddy]

I would recommend shooting for at least 50-60 watts of LED per square foot. Personally I prefer more smaller fixtures than fewer large ones. This gives you the flexibility to raise and lower them independently to accommodate plants of varying size. LEDs do best when the plants are grown within their core penetration area. For most in the 250 watt range this is an area about 2' x 3'.

I've been doing a lot of research into hydro systems myself the past few months in preparation for setting up a new hydro area. I've pretty much decided on an RDWC system from Current Culture. http://www.currentculturehydroponics.com/wholesale/.

 

[big_buddha]

lovely looking plants you have there mate, great to see that T5s can still get the job done