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Reflective surfaces for grow lights #850241

Asked September 17, 2023, 2:50 PM EDT

I want to create affordable indoor edible garden spaces throughout my home so that I can grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, plants, and flowers year round in Minnesota. Since I have to depend solely on full spectrum grow lights, I need to get the absolute most of the light these devices emit. My thought is to construct lightweight movable panels that will surround the plants completely while the lights are in use, but can be moved to provide access for watering, harvesting, and other maintenance activities as needed based on plant size, growth stage, temperature, humidity and space availability. In my mind I visualize two options: glue aluminum foil to the panels or paint the panels with a paint that will create a chrome or mirror like surface. The foil method seems to be the least expensive but also the least durable. The paint method would be the most durable, but I have no idea if a paint of this type even exists let alone what it would cost to use on something of this scope. I am disabled and I live on a very small and limited income and I am looking for the most affordable way to grow healthy food that I would not otherwise not be able to eat. This past spring and summer I tried growing plants outside in containers but spent far too much money for the small amount I have been able to harvest though I did learn quite a bit in the process. As much as I wish I could afford to build an indoor vertical growing system, at this time the supplies are still much too expensive and I will still need to come up with a way to get the most out of my grow lights. My question for you is this: do you know if a paint exists that will work effectively for what I need it to do and do it without breaking the bank?

Waseca County Minnesota

Expert Response

A ultra reflective paint has been developed.
https://news.artnet.com/art-world/scientists-have-developed-the-whitest-white-paint-ever-made-so-reflective-it-can-cool-surfaces-2338779#:~:text=In%202020%2C%20scientists%20at%20Purdue,record%20with%20Guinness%20World%20Records.
Aluminum foil reflects 86% of light shining on it. 
Mylar reflects 95% of light reflecting on it.
Mylar is your best option based on cost and availability.
https://www.cannaconnection.com/blog/18830-3-best-reflective-wall-materials-for-your-marijuana-grow-room
Marijuana obviously is a plant and it is grown indoors so its culture is a good resource for growing indoor vegetables.
Good luck with your project.

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