If your microgreens look pale and leggy or take too long to grow, the problem isn’t your seeds—it’s your lighting. Microgreens need 12–16 hours of steady, high-quality light daily to grow compact and flavorful. Natural light isn’t reliable year-round, especially indoors, so LED grow lights for microgreens come in.
But not all are made for microgreens. Some run too hot, waste energy, or fail to deliver the right spectrum. Choosing the wrong one means weak harvests and wasted effort.
In this guide, you’ll learn exactly what to look for in an LED grow light—from spectrum and wattage to light intensity and setup. Whether starting with one tray or growing at scale, this will help you pick the right light.
Feit Electric 48″ Indoor LED Horticulture Grow Light – Best Adjustable-Spectrum
If you’re serious about growing microgreens and want control over the light spectrum, the Feit Electric 48″ Indoor LED Grow Light is worth a close look. The adjustable spectrum sets this one apart—it lets you toggle between blue, red, and daylight settings, so you can fine-tune the light to match your plants’ needs during different growth stages. That kind of flexibility can make a difference if you experiment with various microgreen varieties.
This light delivers solid coverage for a 4-foot shelf or growing tray and is bright without being overbearing. The integrated design means no extra fixtures are needed—plug it in and clip it up. It’s especially useful for indoor growers who want to maximize space and keep things simple. The light stays cool to the touch, which helps you avoid overheating tender greens. It also comes with a daisy-chain feature, so if you’re running multiple shelves, it’s easy to link them together.
The main trade-off here is price—it’s a bit more expensive than a basic strip and probably best suited for growers who want that level of control. But it earns its keep if you’re looking for reliable performance with spectrum options.
Specifications:
- Material: Aluminum housing
- Size & Dimensions: 48 inches long
- Weight: ~2.5 lbs
- Compatibility: Standard 120V outlet, daisy-chainable
- Recommended Use: Microgreens, seedlings, leafy greens
- Growing Zones: Indoor use only
- Integrations: Manual spectrum switch, daisy chaining
SunBlaster 48″ Full Spectrum LED Strip Light – Best Overall
If you want to grow healthy, vibrant microgreens without overthinking the setup, the SunBlaster 48″ Full Spectrum LED Strip Light hits the sweet spot. It’s simple, reliable, and delivers consistent results—probably why it’s a favorite among home growers and small-scale producers. The full-spectrum output mimics natural sunlight, ensuring your microgreens receive the optimal light quality for rapid, uniform growth.
One standout feature is the built-in reflector, which boosts light output without increasing energy use. That means more efficiency and better coverage, especially useful when growing on shelves or in tight indoor spaces. It runs cool and quiet, and the slim profile makes it easy to mount under cabinets, shelves, or inside grow tents. You’ll also appreciate how low-maintenance it is—no fiddling with settings, plug it in and let it do its thing.
While it doesn’t have the adjustable spectrum like the Feit model, which makes it more beginner-friendly if you’re looking for a grow light that’s dependable, energy-efficient, and ready to go out of the box, this one’s hard to beat.
Specifications:
- Material: Aluminum with integrated reflector
- Size & Dimensions: 48 inches long
- Weight: ~2 lbs
- Compatibility: 120V outlet, linkable (daisy chain up to 8 units)
- Recommended Use: Microgreens, herbs, leafy greens
- Growing Zones: Indoor use
- Integrations: Built-in reflector, linkable design
Barrina 4FT T8 Full Spectrum LED Strip Light – Budget-Friendly
If you’re starting or looking to scale up without breaking the bank, the Barrina 4FT T8 Full Spectrum LED Strip Light is a solid choice. You receive a pack of six lights at a price that often beats the cost of a single premium fixture, making it perfect for setting up multi-shelf microgreen stations. Despite the low price, they put out a bright, balanced spectrum that helps greens grow fast and evenly.
Installation is quick and flexible. Each strip features clips, connectors, and cords for individual use or daisy-chaining. They’re lightweight, run cool, and fit nicely under shelving units—ideal for growers with limited space or custom setups. The low energy consumption also helps keep electricity costs in check, especially if you’re running several trays simultaneously.
The trade-off here is durability and control. They don’t have spectrum adjustments or premium housing, and while they work great out of the box, they may not last as long as higher-end options. Still, these are hard to ignore if you want to grow microgreens affordably without sacrificing light quality.
Specifications:
- Material: Plastic and aluminum
- Size & Dimensions: 48 inches per strip (6-pack)
- Weight: ~1 lb per light
- Compatibility: Standard 110–120V, daisy-chainable
- Recommended Use: Microgreens, indoor seedlings, herbs
- Growing Zones: Indoor use
- Integrations: On/off switch, linkable with included connectors
Understanding Microgreen Light Needs
How Much Light Do Microgreens Need?
Microgreens need 12 to 16 hours of light daily to grow strong, colorful, and compact. They’ll stretch too tall without enough light, turn pale, and grow slowly. Natural sunlight can work with a bright windowsill, but it’s inconsistent. That’s why most indoor growers use artificial lighting. LED grow lights are the most efficient choice—they stay cool, use less energy, and can be placed close to your trays. Your goal is to create an indoor environment that mimics a sunny day. Think of light as fuel. The steadier and balanced it is, the healthier your microgreens will be.
When Should I Expose Microgreens to Light?
Right after germination, your microgreens are ready for light. Most seeds require 2–4 days of darkness to sprout and push through the soil or growing mat. Once they lift their seed hulls and straighten up, it’s time to move them under the lights. Don’t wait too long—delayed exposure can cause weak, leggy stems. Start the light cycle early to support steady and compact growth from the outset.
What Do Light Spectrums Have to Do With Growing Microgreens?
Light spectrum refers to the color wavelengths plants absorb. Blue light encourages short, strong stems and lush leaves. Red light helps boost germination and enhances growth later on. For microgreens, you want a full-spectrum light with a good balance of red and blue. Many LED grow lights are designed with this in mind, helping your crops stay dense and vibrant. A good spectrum differentiates between lanky shoots and full, flavorful greens.
What is the Best Color Temperature for Microgreens?
Aim for LED lights with a color temperature between 4,000K and 6,500 K. This range produces a bright white light that closely mimics daylight. It helps your microgreens grow more evenly and maintain a rich color. Stay away from warm yellow lights—they’re too soft and ineffective for growing.
Choosing the Best LED Grow Lights For Microgreens
What Are the Best Lights for Microgreens?
The best lights for microgreens are full-spectrum LEDs with a daylight-balanced output. Look for models labeled between 4,000K and 6,500K—they’ll provide the right mix of red and blue wavelengths your plants need. Select lights that evenly illuminate your trays without creating hot spots or shadows.
Bar-style or panel LEDs work well because they cover a larger surface area and can be placed close to the plants without overheating. Avoid incandescent or regular household bulbs—they use too much power and don’t offer the right light spectrum. You’ll also want a light with a timer function or pair it with an outlet timer so your light cycles stay consistent.
Brands like Barrina, Spider Farmer, and Mars Hydro have solid options for small-scale setups. While you don’t need the fanciest gear, a dependable light with the right spectrum, moderate wattage, and even coverage will make a big difference in how your microgreens grow.
How Many Watts Do Microgreens Need?
The wattage depends on the size of your grow area. A good rule of thumb is 20–40 watts per square foot. For one standard 10×20 tray, a 40-watt LED grow light usually does the trick. Remember that more watts don’t always mean better growth—what matters more is light intensity and spectrum. LEDs are energy-efficient, so you’ll get a lot of usable light without raising your electric bill too much. Just make sure the wattage matches the number of trays you’re growing.
What Light Intensity Do You Need for Microgreens?
Light intensity is measured in PPFD (Photosynthetic Photon Flux Density), which may sound complex, but it refers to the amount of usable light that hits the plants. For microgreens, aim for a PPFD range between 100 and 200 µmol/m²/s. Most quality LED lights for indoor use will fall in this range when placed about 12–18 inches above the trays. If your greens appear leggy or pale, it may indicate that your light intensity is too low.
Setting Up Your Microgreen Grow Lights
Microgreen Grow Lights Setup (150 words)
Start by placing your LED lights directly above your microgreen trays. Keep the lights centered to avoid uneven growth. Use adjustable shelves or hangers to change the height as your plants grow. Most growers initially place lights 12–18 inches above the trays. You can lower the lights slightly as the greens grow to maintain even exposure.
Reflective surfaces, such as white walls or Mylar sheets, help bounce light back onto the plants, improving efficiency. Set your lights on a timer to maintain a consistent cycle—aim for 12 to 16 hours of light followed by 8 to 12 hours of darkness. If you’re stacking trays vertically, ensure each shelf has its light source.
Don’t rely on light filtering through from above. Keep cords organized and check that no hot spots are forming. A well-set-up light system keeps your microgreens growing straight, strong, and vibrant.
How Far Should My Lights Be From Microgreens?
Keep your lights about 12 to 18 inches above the canopy. If you’re using low-wattage LEDs or lights with diffusers, you can bring them closer, around 6 to 10 inches. Watch how your microgreens respond. If they start leaning or stretching, move the lights closer. If leaves begin to curl or dry out, raise them slightly to reduce stress.
Can a Grow Light Be Too Strong?
Yes—too much light can cause bleaching, curled leaves, or scorched tips. If your microgreens look faded or crispy around the edges, your light might be too intense or too close. Dial it back by raising the light or shortening the exposure time.
Timing and Light Cycles
How Many Hours of Light Do Microgreens Need?
Microgreens grow best with 12 to 16 hours of light per day. Anything less, and they may stretch too far, looking for more light, resulting in thin, weak stems. Too much, and they could show signs of stress or slow down. Aim for a balance that mimics a bright spring day. Using a simple outlet timer is the easiest way to stay consistent. Set it once and let it handle the daily cycle automatically—no need to remember to turn the lights on or off.
The dark cycle is just as important. Microgreens require 8 to 12 hours of darkness to rest and undergo growth processes that occur only in the absence of light. Skipping the dark period can confuse their natural rhythm and lead to slower development. If you’re growing near a window or supplementing natural light, block out stray light at night if it disrupts the dark phase.
Consistency is the key. Sudden changes in light exposure—either too short or too long—can throw off growth. Once you’ve found a rhythm that works, stick to it. Microgreens will reward you with uniform height, rich color, and steady harvest times.
Monitoring LED Grow Lights for Microgreens
How Do You Know Your Microgreens Are Getting Enough Light?
Healthy microgreens grow straight, have rich color, and stay compact. If your trays produce greens with sturdy stems and vibrant leaves, your lighting is likely on point. But light is often the first place to check when things look off.
Leggy or stretched stems usually mean they’re reaching for more light. You’ll also see pale or yellowing leaves if the light is too weak or too far away. On the other hand, if your greens look bleached, dry, or have curled edges, they might be getting too much light, or the lights are too close.
Make small adjustments. Move the light an inch or two up or down, and watch for changes over a few days. Also, rotate trays if you notice one side growing taller than the other. Consistent observation is your best tool. Once you learn how your microgreens react, spotting and fixing problems early is easier.
More Microgreen Tips & Insights
How Much Light do Microgreens Need To Grow?
Lighting for Indoor Plants: A Complete Guide
10 Best Low Light Plants That Love Dark Rooms
Sterilize Sprouting Jars: The Crucial First Step to Safe Sprouts
