Lighting horizontal or vertical?

[peanut8]

Does it matter if I hang my lights horizontal or vertical?

 

[SmokeJunior]

I think you should hang them above and then add from that

 

[Balarama]

It matters a bit. The spiraled cfls are better put vertically, the straight ones are for horizontal(both with reflector).

 

[peanut8]

Do I have to use a reflector?

 

[swampman]

I think you should hang them above and then add from that

Do I have to use a reflector?

It Sure Helps

 

[peanut8]

Why couldn't I use the light socket on the cord and hang them? I'm planing on useing a 300 watt spiral bulb

 

[omnious]

I'm planing on useing a 300 watt spiral bulb

For that amount of light reflector would be better. Hang chords around plant(s) if you have many bulbs "My 2 cents"
Or did you mean multiple 300W's? That could cause heat issues.

 

[Balarama]

Maybe with two 150w bulbs instead of one 300w you could have better light penetration. Also more lights mean the possibility for mixed spectrum(like 6500K + 2700K)... Just a thought.

The reflector can be home made and usually makes the lights more efficient, so it's almost a must have.

 

[Happy Horticulturist]

Grow lights come with reflectors for a reason. It helps direct light directly to your plant which is what is needing the light. Normal CFL's don't have reflectors because they are usually made to light up rooms and rooms don't want the light directed down to one certain spot.

So YES you need a reflector and a proper grow light.

 

[peanut8]

Ok I was trying to save money but I will go the other way and get the 125 watt with reflectors