Indirect bright light refers to sunlight or artificial light sources positioned away from a subject, providing a light source that is not directly illuminating it. This type of lighting is often considered the leading standard in tropical regions.
In the realm of horticulture, providing the right amount of light for tropical plants and terrariums is crucial for their growth and survival. Here's a guide to identifying and measuring bright indirect light, a key aspect for these delicate species.
Bright indirect light is a term used to describe the plant's exposure to ample light, yet shielded from direct sunlight that could potentially scorch leaves. This type of lighting is common under a sheer curtain or near a window not exposed to harsh midday sun. Plants like Calathea lancifolia and terrarium moss such as Hypnum imponens thrive in bright indirect light, similar to forest floor conditions under a canopy.
To avoid direct sunlight, which can dry out or burn plants, especially delicate terrarium species and tropical foliage, is essential.
Measuring bright indirect light accurately can be achieved using a light meter, such as a photosynthetic photon flux density (PPFD) meter or a quantum sensor. These devices measure the number of usable light photons plants can use for photosynthesis. Placing the sensor at the height where the plants grow ensures relevant readings. Bright indirect light roughly corresponds to a light level between 1000-2500 lumens per square foot or a moderate PPFD value (around 50-500 µmol/m²/s) depending on the plant species.
For indoor grow lights, a typical T5 fluorescent grow light placed 6-12 inches above the plants delivers bright indirect light suitable for tropical plants, with an output around 1800 lumens, covering a footprint of about 2 ft by 14 inches. If natural light is limited, full-spectrum LED grow lights with a color temperature of 6500-7000K, simulating shade conditions, can be used for about 10 hours daily to provide bright indirect light for terrarium plants.
Practical tips include using a light meter app or handheld device to check light intensity in your space, observing plant response, and situating terrariums near a window with filtered sun or beneath artificial lights designed for plant growth.
By combining visual cues with objective light measurement tools, you can ensure your tropical plants and terrariums receive the optimal bright indirect light they need to thrive. It's important to note that all plants need sunlight to survive, even so-called low light terrarium plants.
In summary, understanding bright indirect light is vital for maintaining healthy tropical plants and terrariums. By avoiding direct sunlight, using light meters, and situating plants appropriately, you can provide the perfect lighting conditions for these delicate species to flourish.
Maintaining a bright indirect light environment is essential for the growth and well-being of plants like Calathea lancifolia and terrarium moss, as they thrive in conditions similar to forest floors under a canopy. This type of lighting can be achieved by positioning plants under a sheer curtain or near a window not exposed to harsh midday sun, or by using indoor grow lights designed for plant growth.