On 15 Oct 2004 11:35:58 -0700, (Merle
O'Broham) wrote:

This might sound like a reeeeeeeeeally dumb question (or possibly OT),
but.....

I'm just getting into indoor plants, especially having some at my
workplace. Lots of big east-facing windows with miniblinds,
flourescent lighting. Do plants need a period of rest, i.e. should I
leave the lights on at night and over the weekend? Serious question.
Really.

TIA

Plants need to "sleep" just like animals. You can use a timer set to
have the light on for 14 to 18 hours each day, depending on the plant.
Some plants need very little light to survive, others (African
violets) respond exceptionally well to fluorescent lighting. You can
measure the amount of light in a area using a light meter (ask someone
into photography.)