when its time to lengthen photoperiod

[plantnoob]

at the moment with the tank being freshly planted , im running lights for 6 hours . this will increase to 8 hours . when and how is it best to do this ? should i let the plants grow in then gradually increase it over a few weeks ?

 

[foxfish]

Why do you want to increase the light period?

 

[plantnoob]

if im totally honest , simply to get more "viewing time "

 

[foxfish]

Well perhaps consider some low level lighting for a sun rise sunset effect one hour either side of the main light.

 

[plantnoob]

i figured that seeing as my light is quite low , 2x24w t5 over a 125L tank , that i could safely go to 8 hours ? i guess i could rig something with a single low wattage tube either side of the main lights being on .

 

[NanoJames]

I don't see any problem with long lighting periods. My lighting on my nano is just under 0.5 watts per litre and I keep them on 12 hours!😱 Try a longer period and if it doesn't work for you then just dial it back. Have a little experiment!

 

[foxfish]

I agree there is nothing wrong with extending the light period if the tank is mature & algae free but with a new set up I would let it establish first.

 

[plantnoob]

it was always the intention to let it grow in and mature 1st , i just wasnt sure if it should just be bumped straight up to 8 or wether it should be done bit by bit

 

[foxfish]

That would make sense to me, up the lighting durations gradually as well as the C02 of course.

 

[plantnoob]

at the moment ive got my drop checkers just on the yellowish side of green . how does this sound for a plan ? wait until its had its 1st trim and grown back in again , then increase by say 30 mins a week