What is HPS Lighting?

Date: 2.17.2023

Author: Homegrown Cultivation Center, L.L.C.

High-Pressure Sodium (HPS) lighting is a type of High-Intensity Discharge (HID) lighting. HID lighting uses an electric arc to produce light, and HPS lighting produces a yellowish-orange light that is ideal for plant growth. The light produced by HPS lamps is similar to the light produced by the sun, and it is well-suited for the vegetative and flowering stages of cannabis growth.

Benefits of HPS Lighting for Cannabis Cultivation:

PAR

HPS lighting boasts a superior Photosynthetically Active Radiation (PAR) output compared to other lighting options, including LED. This attribute is vital for plant growth since PAR is the segment of the light spectrum that plants rely on for photosynthesis.

Yield

The yellowish-orange light produced by HPS lamps is ideal for the flowering stage of cannabis growth. The light has a high amount of red light, which is critical for stimulating the production of buds and increasing the yield of cannabis plants.

Good for Dense Canopy

Cannabis plants grow very quickly and can become dense, making it difficult for light to reach the lower leaves. HPS lighting has a high penetration rate, which means that it can reach the lower leaves of the cannabis plants, promoting healthy growth.

Long Lifespan

HPS lamps have a long lifespan, which is beneficial for growers. The lamps can last for up to five years before they need to be replaced. This is a cost-effective solution for growers who want to reduce their operating costs.

Durability

 HPS lamps are highly durable and can withstand harsh conditions. This makes them a reliable option for growers who want to ensure that their lighting system can withstand the challenges of a demanding cultivation environment.

Wide Availability

 HPS lighting is widely available and can be found at most hydroponic stores or online retailers. This makes it easy for growers to obtain the lighting they need, and replacement bulbs can be easily sourced when needed.

Spectrum Stability

 HPS lighting produces a stable light spectrum that is consistent over time. HPS lamps do not shift in spectrum over time like some other types of lighting, which ensures that the plants are receiving the same quality of light throughout their growth cycle.

Cost-Effective

HPS lighting is one of the most cost-effective lighting options for cannabis cultivation. It produces a high amount of light for its wattage and has a long lifespan, which reduces the need for frequent bulb replacements. Additionally, HPS lamps are less expensive than some other types of lighting, which makes them an attractive option for growers who want to keep their costs low.

Enhances Terpene and Cannabinoid Production

HPS lighting has been shown to enhance terpene and cannabinoid production in cannabis plants. This is due to the high levels of red light produced by HPS lamps, which has been shown to increase the production of these compounds. Terpenes and cannabinoids are important for the flavor, aroma, and effects of cannabis, and HPS lighting can help to increase their levels.