

In addition, they were all in various states of health when we began the testing. We observed the plants and noted any significant changes, but keep in mind that this part was subjective since we used different plants, including seedlings, houseplants, and overwintered patio plants. We recorded our observations and awarded points based on a rubric throughout the testing. We tested timers on the lights that came with them to see how accurate they were, and we frequently tested for heat generation by putting our hands beneath the grow lights to see if they were producing heat or not.

To determine each light’s practical coverage, we darkened the room, turned on the grow light, and then measured the distance of the brightest part of the light pattern. We tried to keep the testing as scientific as possible by providing the recommended amount of light-by plant type-with the grow lights.

While we’re not professional growers by a long shot-we do enjoy starting seeds, and we have several houseplants that always seem a bit on the leggy side due to inadequate light. Photo: Glenda Taylor How We Tested the Best Grow LightsĪfter reading information about the benefits of grow lights, we wanted to determine for ourselves whether the hype was true. BEST MONITORING: Phlizon 2022 Upgraded 600W LED Plant Grow Light.MOST VERSATILE: Hydrofarm Agrobrite FLC32D Compact Grow Lamp.BEST FOR SMALL POT: GrowLED LED Umbrella Plant Grow Light.BEST ADJUSTABLE: Bestva Dimmable Pro1000 LED Grow Light.BEST TABLETOP: LBW Full Spectrum 150W LED Grow Light with Stand.BEST EXPANDABLE: 2022 New Spider Farmer SF-1000 LED Grow Light.BEST FOR HOUSEPLANTS: Ankace Grow Light, 3 Head Timing, 5 Dimmable Levels.BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: GE Grow LED Light Bulb, BR30 Bulb Shape.BEST OVERALL: Hytekgro LED Grow Light Panel (2 Pack).Ahead, learn what to look for when selecting the best grow lights for your indoor plants, and find out both the pros and cons of the following models before making your choice. We kept track of plant health, overall growth, and the development of new leaves. We placed the plants and grow lights in areas that were otherwise too dark for plants to grow, and we tried them out on a variety of plants, from houseplants to herbs, to flowering seedlings. We wanted to know if they worked well enough to keep plants not just alive-but thriving-so we tested the most popular models on the market. Though nothing is better than natural sunlight, grow lights are designed to provide Photosynthetic Active Radiation (PAR) so the plant can undergo photosynthesis like outside in nature. Unless you have a greenhouse or an unlimited number of south-facing windows, grow lights are your best option for providing the right light to your plants. When it comes to plants, all light is not equal.
