Cannabis cultivation has evolved in recent years, driven by advancements in technology, relaxations in regulations, and the need for high-quality crops for medicinal research purposes. As legal markets expand globally, growers face rising pressure to optimize production while adhering to strict quality and sustainability standards. Lighting technology has been a key driver of this evolution, enabling precise control over growth cycles, cannabinoid production, and energy efficiency.
Traditional High-Pressure Sodium (HPS) lamps, known for their high energy consumption and limited spectrum control, are being replaced by advanced LED lighting solutions. Since 2009, Valoya has led the way in developing research-driven LED grow lights for biotech and horticultural applications, including cannabis. Our solutions are trusted by 8 of the world's 10 largest agricultural companies to improve cannabinoid profiles, enhance yield consistency, and reduce operational costs, making it a pillar of modern cannabis cultivation practices.
LED's vs HPS lighting performance
Cannabis plants rely heavily on light for photosynthesis and metabolic processes, which directly impact the production of cannabinoids like THC and CBD. Traditional HPS lights, once the industry standard, are now being outperformed by LEDs due to their customizable light spectra and energy efficiency, solidifying their position as the best grow lights for plants.
A two-year independent study conducted in Italy compared the performance of Valoya's Solray spectrum with HPS lighting with the plants grown under 450 µmol/m2/s. The results were 26-38% more THC production under Solray, and 29-40% more CBD production under Solray.
Elevated terpene concentration
Terpenes are aromatic compounds responsible for the unique smell, flavor, and therapeutic properties of cannabis. A trial conducted in a North American commercial cultivation facility revealed that cannabis plants grown under Solray385 spectrum had a 14.7% higher terpene concentration compared to a competitor white LED spectrum.
This enhanced terpene production amplifies the symbiotic relationship between cannabinoids like THC and terpenes to provide greater therapeutic benefits. By fine-tuning light spectra, growers can produce cannabis with a richer and more complex profile, enhancing their medical effectiveness.
Yields with compact, resinous plants
Maximizing yield is a priority for any cultivator. In Boulder, Colorado, Valoya's Solray® spectrum was tested against HPS during the flowering phase under a light intensity of 800 µmol/m²/s. The results showed 133% higher dry flower yield compared to HPS, more uniform and compact plants, allowing them to support heavier flower formation and making them better suited for multitier cultivation, and higher cannabinoid concentrations due to optimal stress levels induced by shorter wavelengths like blue and UV-A.
Enhancing cultivation across all growth stages
LED lighting supports cannabis cultivation at every stage of growth. LEDs promote robust vegetative growth in mother plants, ensuring healthier cuttings and fewer losses. The blue and UV-A light wavelengths reduce mold, pests, and bacteria during tissue culture, increasing survival rates and uniformity. Furthermore, LEDs' durability and uniform light distribution foster consistent clone growth in cannabis plants and support the development of compact and slim plants, ideal for vertical farming.
During the flowering phase, LEDs significantly boost cannabinoid and terpene production, ensuring a higher amount of dry flower weight and consistent flower quality and chemotype in continuous cycles.
Source: Valoya