Lighting stand

[jctusa]

I have been researching ideas for a plant stand that would work in a living area. So far my collection isn't that large so I can get by with a table, but realize I need more lighting if I want any blooms. I stumbled upon this rather inexpensive easy to make "lighting rack" that may be of interest to some.

light_stand.gif

I would modify the height so that it extends over the table I am using.

If this has already been discussed or posted be gentle, I am new at this.

John

[mayres]

Good inexpensive concept for a small number of plants. Keep in mind that standard inexpensive shop lights will only work well for low light need orchids - such as paphs, phals and others in this category.

[kmarch]

There are s couple of threads on light and light systems. Use the forum search feature and type in "light" or "lights" and see what you find. You might find others have built similar systems and saved lot of money.

[patticake]

Thanks John! I've been showing different set-ups to my husband. (hint-hint) I have a grow cart from years ago, but it only holds 2 t-12 gro-lux tubes. It's o.k. for what I need now, but down the road I'll need more (four tubes per shelf. This is a great picture to show the type of light fixture I'm looking to put together. We're always looking for new ideas- don't apologize for it!

[clarita]

I abaonded tubes a long time ago. There are so many more efficient lighting options on the market that will give you the freedom to grow whatever you choose. If you have a small collection, an octopus lamp and some 42 w cfl's in a higher K range will give you more Fc's and are more economical than tubes. While tubes are more cost efficient to run than incandescents they aren't all that cost effective compared to cfl's

[ganim]

If it happened that the weight of fluorescent fixture was a problem,I may suggest that the ballasts be separated and mount them on a place that can be made into a central location for all your ballasts thereby reducing weight of your stand carrying.

[Brooke]

You could easily turn the pvc stand into a stand to hold the better T5 fixtures and have more flexibility in the plants you can grow.

You could buy one of the adjustable wire shelving units from the big box stores and have multiple shelves and lights and a LOT more plants. Seriously, you will need it :>)

Brooke

[jctusa]

Good input from everyone. I appreciate any and all suggestions. This is still a research and planning period for me.

John

[PhalPal]

John one thing I really like about making my own PVC stand is that I can easily and cheaply change it at any time. If I want to add another bank of lights in the future it is easy to expand. I took Mayres advice and didn't glue my pieces together, making changes simple.

Beside all that, I felt like a kid in a lincoln log store.