LED Grow Lights for Hydroponics and Aquaponics

There is much debate regarding wether plants require a period of "darkness" to grow. Though I will save that discussion for another day, it is no debate that plants need light. Traditional agriculture works best during the summer months when the days are long the sun is out. However, indoor agriculture gives the grower the ability to determine how much light the plants receive. 

Traditionally, T8 bulbs have been used to provide light to indoor plants. However, over past several years LED lighting has become an increasingly popular among indoor growers. This is because of the cheaper cost and enhanced photosynthesis that results from their use. My own research has proven LED lights to be cheaper than traditional lighting methods. Also, most LED growing lights contain red and blue bulbs. This funky-looking color scheme, which appears purple or pink to the naked eye,  is no accident. Red and blue visible light exists at wavelengths of about 440 and 640 Nanometers respectively. When plants are exposed to light at these wavelengths, photosynthesis peaks and plants can reach their healthiest state. 

Based on the information above, I decided to purchase LED strip lights for my aquaponics system. I purchased two, 16 foot strips for $32, plus adapter cables to hook up the lights.Quite honestly, I doubted the ability of these lights to perform at their fullest. However, after three days of use, I am very pleased. The lettuces are no longer limp, and appear to have very sturdy structures. Pictured are the lettuce plants I started a few weeks ago. I did not transfer the plants into the cups as early as I would have liked, but I still think they will grow just fine. I currently do not have water running through the system, but hope to in a few days. Pictured below are the lettuces after three days of the lighting.