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Plant Growth: No Light vs. Artificial Light

Plants cannot grow in total darkness—they need light for photosynthesis. However, they grow well under artificial light (fluorescent, LED, HID) if intensity, duration, and spectrum are adequate.

Artificial Lighting Basics

Duration: 12-16 hours/day for most plants.
Intensity: 2000-5000 lux for foliage; higher for flowering/fruiting.
Spectrum: Full-spectrum or cool-white fluorescent; red/blue LED combos.
Distance: 6-12 inches for fluorescents; follow manufacturer for LEDs.

Science Fair Project Tips

Compare growth under: 1) natural window light, 2) fluorescent, 3) LED, 4) darkness (control). Measure height, leaf area, biomass over 4-6 weeks. Use fast-growing species like beans or radishes.

Resources

lycaeum.org/~npkaye/lightingfaq.html
growingedge.com/basics/tutorial/05_lighting.html

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