Fluorescent Lights

All plants need light to grow properly. They use light in a process called photosynthesis as a source of getting necessary nutrients. During the process of photosynthesis, a plant uses an element known chlorophyll to gather the energy from the light. This well-known fact may remind you of fifth-grade science class, but the general concept is applicable to any adult plant-grower who wants to use florescent lights to help his plants flourish. Light waves come in many colors and some of the waves of light are used and some are not. Plants readily absorb red and blue light but they do not utilize very much of the green. In fact, they actually reflect the green light waves back into the atmosphere. This is what gives plants their green color.

... Fluorescent lights can be designed to economically emit specific types of light waves ...

Here is where the fluorescent lights come in. Different types of light produce different colors in their wavelength. Their color is determined by the specific wavelengths. Fluorescent lights can be designed to economically emit specific types of light waves. So a plant enthusiast can use the special lighting to “feed” his assortment of plants throughout the entire year. 

... the plants are exposed to mostly the red and blue waves ...

 
This is exactly what the professionals who work with plants have done. They have developed fluorescent lights that are designed to achieve efficient use of the wavelengths set off by the rays. This is accomplished by downplaying the green, yellow and orange rays found in the light source. By reducing these colors in the spectrum, the plants are exposed to mostly the red and blue waves emitted from the fluorescent lights.
The brightness of the rays is another factor in the successful use of fluorescent lights to attain maximum plant growth. The more energy the plant gets, the more it grows. Using intense rays helps the plants thrive and flourish. When using intense rays, the plant enthusiast should also consider how much distance should stand between the fluorescent lights and the plants. In order to achieve maximum results, it is best to keep the rays a safe distance away from the plants.

... just like people, plants need to rest ...

Another thing to consider is that just like people, plants need to rest. While fluorescent lights are effective in getting plants to grow quickly, too much light can actually harm the vegetation. A good balance is ideal. People who want to maintain a garden throughout the winter months may want to consider using fluorescent lights to brighten the winter days and even the winter nights.