4 bulbs allows you to illuminate more plants, or the same number more
brightly, or the same number at the same intensity at a greater distance.

Folks with more experience can provide a better answer, but that's the gist
of it.

--

Ray Barkalow - First Rays Orchids - www.firstrays.com
Plants, Supplies, Artwork, Books and Lots of Free Info!


"Larry" wrote in message
.. .
Hi all! I have a question about fluorescent lights...

During the winter months I keep most of my orchids inside in a plant cart
with 3 shelves. I will move them outside once temperatures are
consistently over 60 degrees at night (I live in Northeast Florida -
Jacksonville).

Each shelf has 2 fluorescent lights above them (48 inches, 40 watts ea).
In an orchid book (Ortho's "All About Orchids") it was recommended to use
4 bulbs per shelf. How critical is the number of bulbs? I would think the
number of bulbs is not as critical as is the actual amount of light.

Do you think that as long as the amount of light as measured by
footcandles is OK, 2 bulbs will suffice?

Thanks.

Larry