As we hopefully, eventually slide into the cooler months (because it is still 100 degrees here. Literally. )the days will start getting shorter. And those tropical plants we’ve decided belong inside our homes may start missing all that summer sunshine.

So this is the time of year when a lot of plant folks start thinking about grow lights.

But how do you know which one to buy? Why is one grow-light bulb $8 while another is $30 or more?

For me, it comes down to three things: PPFD, energy usage, and versatility.

First, PPFD.

Without turning this into Plant School just yet, PPFD helps tell us how much photosynthetically active light is actually reaching our plants. And here’s the important part: the number changes depending on things like the light itself and how far your plant is from it.

I’ve successfully used lower-PPFD lights, especially with plants that aren’t highly variegated or particularly demanding. But some of my slower growers and highly variegated plants have definitely benefited from stronger lights.

As always, work with the plants you have and the budget you have. Not every pothos needs to be sitting under the botanical equivalent of the sun. 😂

Next, energy usage.

Generally, higher wattage means higher energy consumption. Thankfully, most of the grow lights we’re shopping for these days are LEDs, which can provide good light output without the energy demands of older lighting technologies.

Again, I’ve had great results with lower-wattage lights for plants without particularly high light requirements.

My highly variegated picky princesses?

They tend to appreciate a little more.

And finally, versatility.

You’ll notice I’ve talked mostly about grow-light bulbs, and there’s a reason for that: they’re one of my favorites.

You can take a lamp or compatible light fixture, screw in a grow-light bulb and WA-POW! Happy plants. 🪴

That versatility means I don’t necessarily have to choose between having a home that looks like me and giving my plants the light they need. I can choose lamps and fixtures that add style and personality to a room while still supporting the plants growing there.

And that’s probably my favorite thing about grow lights in general: they make it possible for us to grow tropical plants indoors year-round—even when the sun isn’t cooperating.

If you’re looking for a place to start, I’ve added some of my favorite grow-light bulbs and bars to my Amazon storefront.*

Shop My Favorite Grow Lights → ​https://a.co/d/04SMlvzl​

*As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.