Grow Light Burn on Orchids: Switch to Cool Fluorescents

Spot grow-lights run hot—burn spots on Phal & Cattleya leaves. You need cool, broad coverage.

Best Budget Fix

• Two 4-ft shop lights with 40W cool-white fluorescent tubes (4 total).
• Hang 6" above young Cattleyas, 12" for Phals/mature plants.
• Run 13 hrs/day (timer). Increase with season.
• No leaf burn unless leaf touches tube.

Cost & Coverage

~$40 total. Covers 8 sq ft at safe intensity. Clip-on compact fluorescents cheaper but less coverage.

Recovery

Burned leaves won't heal. Focus on new growth. Move lights up if heat builds. Small fan helps.