5 Tips If You Are Running Under Canopy Lighting

I used to be on the fence about UCLs.

And it's certainly cultivar dependent.

But after doing the math, even at .38/kilowatt in CA the increased uniformity, color and yield in the lower canopy out weighs the initial capital investment and OpEx.

So if you are going to give them a spin, here are my 5 tips:

1. Most importantly, don't over prune your lowers. I see this all the time with clients and it's such a silly mistake. You got to leave all the bud sites.

2. Leaving 75% of fan leaves after a 2nd defoliation will allow for increased light penetration and still give the plant the photosynthetic capability it needs.

3. Increase irrigation volume 10-15%. Some plants may need a higher EC as well. The plants will be drinking more.

4. Transpiration rates and heat will increase so make sure your facility is capable of handling the higher dehumidification and cooling needs.

5. Select a cultivar that responds well to UCL and has the morphological potential to produce larger lower buds.

Happy Growing!