With the advantages of lower energy consumption and longer lifetime of the lighting units, LED grow lights are gaining in popularity. They are the newest type of grow light, being considered by both hobby and commercial growers.

LED lights are much more efficient, producing more lumens per unit of electricity than incandescent bulbs, as well as emitting much less heat. They can be placed much nearer to plants, so the available light is not wasted.

A panel of LED lights is made up of many individual diodes, each of which can be made to emit a certain color of light depending on the material within the diode. Growers can achieve a pure white light, blue light for foliage growth, or use more from the red end of the spectrum to encourage flowering and fruiting.

Because of their solid state construction, these supplemental plant lights are much less apt to break or burn out than fluorescent tubes or incandescent bulbs. Their useful life span is between 35000 and 50000 hours, over three times that of fluorescent lights and more than 40 times that of incandescent bulbs.

Another advantage of LED panels is the construction of each diode that is made to focus the light in one directions. This eliminates the need for bulky and heavy reflectors that are needed with the alternative kinds of lights.

At this time, LED supplementary lights for plants are more expensive to buy than other grow light systems. Their sensitivity to high temperatures and fluctuating power requires more complex construction. Both current regulators and heat sinks must be included. This initial expense is generally offset within two years, because of their lower power use and longer lifespan.

In selecting a supplier of LED grow lights, buyers should choose one that has a good reputation and that supplies a comprehensive guarantee. Choosing a local manufacturer and supplier is also a good idea, since any servicing will be easier and cheaper.