UVs can be used in one form or another by the three primary grow lamp types available on the market: HPS/MH (HID), LED, and T5. LEDs don't inherently emit UV light, but HID and T5 grow lights do, however each one may add extra UV wavelength for greater growth and taste. This is how:
Grow lights using MH (HID) and HPS
UV light is naturally present in the light that is produced when MH and HPS lamps are turned on. There is no need for an extra bulb or fixture to provide this UV light. However, if you'd want to give your plants an additional taste boost, you may use supplemental UV-B bulbs or UV T5 fluorescent lights.
T5 fluorescent bulbs are the simplest way to increase the amount of UV light coming from your HID grow lamp system. For instance, the PowerVEG T5 54W 4' T5 Fluorescent Grow Bulb will provide your plants with an appropriate amount of UV light.
Hang T5s at the same height as your HIDs in your grow tent or grow space. Keep in mind that too much proximity can bleach your plants.
LED Grow Lamps
While the majority of LEDs will provide almost all the wavelengths of light your plants require, some LEDs include unique UV diodes that emit UV-B rays. For instance, these diodes are available from Advance Spectrum LED Grow Lights, and they will provide your plants an energy boost just by turning on your grow light. The fact that the cost of UV is included in the light's price with these lights means there is no additional expense on top of the overall cost, which is a fantastic benefit.
Advance Spectrum LED Grow Lights have a specific UV-B diode in every light, eliminating the need for additional ultraviolet lighting installation or maintenance.
You might alternatively choose an LED that has a connector for a UV lamp. These sorts of bulbs are also offered by California Light Works and MINT LED grow lights, albeit you may pay substantially more for them at the register.
Systems like the SolarSystem 550 and SolarSystem 1100 LED Grow lamps from California Light Works include sizable, powerful secondary lamps for the UV wavelength your plants require. To prevent harming your plants, take careful to limit the amount and height of exposure to these powerful lights.
The MINT LED 1000 COB LED Panel, for example, incorporates an on-board UV lamp to provide the UV wavelength you want.
LEDs with UV diodes incorporated in should be hung between 24 and 30 inches above your plants, the standard height.
LEDs with UV lamps should be hung at the same height as standard LEDs.
