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Old 26-03-2006, 06:07 PM posted to rec.gardens.orchids
K Barrett
 
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Default General question about light

Yes, it is possible to give a plant too much light. Physically, not only
can one burn the leaves (since light is heat) but on a chemical basis the
ring structure of chlorophyll gets damaged when bombarded with too much
light. (all those double bonds get broken, irreparably) Plants then turn
that sickly light green and die.

I have noticed that in too much light the inflorescence doesn't elongate
properly and flowers are crowded on a stem. Which then makes me wonder
about how to detrermine the proper amount of light and my head swims and I
come back to the computer and read my silly murder mystery newsgroup. Or
watch TV.

If you ever really wanted to read up on photosynthesis the University of
Arizona has a marvelous photosynthesis page with great links to follow.
Googling terms lead to some great papers, too. Dr Wang's research on phal
production has a lot of science on proper light levels. To blow my own horn
I'll provide the link to Dr Wang's papers via OrchidSafari, *G*
http://www.geocities.com/brassia.geo/OSTA.html

K Barrett


"Ray" wrote in message
. ..
Looking for opinions, science, and/or anecdotal evidence:

(Disregarding the obvious situation in which the light intensity is so
great that pant tissues are burned)

Is it possible to give a plant too much light?

It is well established that too little light will lead to slower growth,
more "leggy" growth, and less blooming, and I have frequently heard that
plants should be grown as bright as possible without damaging them, but is
that really good advice? Are there cases where plants grow better in more
subdued lighting? If so, which, and why is that?

--

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