Question
Hi,
I am looking to build a 4 foot terrarium that is about 20 inches tall.  I am thinking of lighting it with 4 40 watt t8 lights which is about 10000 lumens, but is this enough?  I will be growing plants like byblis cephalotus nepenthes heliamphora, and some drosera.  I could get a t5 tube setup for twice the lumens but 3 times the cost, i could also try to put in 6 t8 tubes.  So what do you think, will 4 do, or do i need more?
Thanks

Answer
Hi Adam,

I haven't used T8 or T5 tubes, so I can't really can't comment on whether or not your plants will grow properly.  I generally opt for the regular cool white tubes and position the lights close to the plants to get the necessary light intensity.  Overall, your setup seems appropriate.  The lumens are strong and the plants you have will grow fine with that type of lumens, so I'll leave it as is.

As a grower, however, you will need to pay attention to your plants and reposition either the plants or the lights as necessary.  If your plants are not developing vibrant colors and your sundews look dry, you may need to move the plants closer to the lights.  Keep in mind that lumens is measured at 12 inches from the light source, so if you have the lights 20 inches away from the plants, the actual lumens on the plants will be less.  Heat is also an issue, so you should also make sure there is proper ventilation for excessive heat and humidity to escape.

Keep us posted about your outcome.  This will be good information for other growers.

Good growing!
Jacob Farin