I've got some sedums, including a Sedum Firestorm, Shooting Stars, and Graptosedum Alpenglow. I've had them under incandescent grow lights, but the colors have faded over a month or two. I'm setting up Barrina T5 lights on a white shelf and wondering if placing my sedums directly under these new lights will help bring back their vibrant colors. Am I wasting my time trying to induce those sun stress colors indoors, or should I just plant them outside? I've heard they're frost hardy in zone 7, but I'm unsure if that's true. Would love to hear your thoughts on activating those rich colors indoors!
2 Answers
I’m using Barrina T5 lights too, and I usually keep mine about 6 inches away. They did well for me indoors, but I found my sedums needed the outdoors for that vibrant look. It really depends on which T5 model you got; some are better than others. Keep an eye on them, and if they don’t perk up indoors, you might want to set them outside once the weather's nice!
Sounds like you've got some good sedums! Your info about them being frost hardy is accurate; they can thrive outdoors in zone 7. However, about the light, T5s are pretty effective. You might see some color changes if you keep them close enough and use multiple lights, but getting that intense sun stress look could take a bit more effort. Check the PAR rating of your lights to match the needs of your plants. And a light meter app might help you fine-tune how you're lighting them up!