The Ultimate Guide to Proper Lighting for Growing Hemp and Cannabis: Indoor, Outdoor & Greenhouse Success
- William Kanistras
- Apr 2
- 3 min read
When it comes to growing high-quality cannabis, lighting is one of the most critical factors. Whether you’re cultivating indoors, outdoors, or in a greenhouse with mixed-light, understanding the right light conditions can make all the difference in plant health, potency, and overall yield. At Clone Harvest, we provide premium clones with strong genetics, but to reach their full potential, they need the right environment—starting with proper lighting.
Indoor Lighting for Hemp and Cannabis Cultivation
Indoor growers must replicate natural sunlight as closely as possible to ensure healthy, productive plants. The three most common types of artificial grow lights are:
1. LED Grow Lights
Energy-efficient and long-lasting
Customizable spectrum for different growth stages
Lower heat output, reducing cooling costs
2. High-Pressure Sodium (HPS) Lights
Ideal for flowering due to their intense red spectrum
Higher heat output, requiring good ventilation
Proven track record in commercial production
3. Metal Halide (MH) Lights
Best for vegetative growth due to their blue spectrum
Often used in combination with HPS for full-cycle growth
Light Cycles for Indoor Hemp and Cannabis
Vegetative Stage: 18-24 hours of light per day
Flowering Stage: 12 hours of light, 12 hours of darkness
Proper lighting ensures strong growth, high cannabinoid production, and optimal terpene expression. Our clones are ready to thrive in any indoor setup with the right lighting strategy.
Outdoor Hemp and Cannabis Cultivation: Maximizing Natural Light
Outdoor growers have the advantage of free, full-spectrum sunlight, but proper planning is still key. Consider these factors:
Best Sun Exposure
Full sun (at least 8-12 hours per day) is crucial
South-facing slopes or open fields maximize light exposure
Seasonal Considerations
Plant after the last frost for best results
Flowering naturally begins as daylight decreases in late summer
Shading & Protection
Be mindful of shade from trees, buildings, or other obstructions
Protective netting can help manage extreme sun exposure in hotter climates
By choosing Clone Harvest’s robust clones, outdoor growers can expect strong root development and high resilience under full sun conditions.
Greenhouse & Mixed-Light Cultivation
Greenhouses and mixed-light setups combine the best of both worlds, offering natural sunlight with supplemental lighting when needed.
Key Benefits of Greenhouse Growing
Extends the growing season with controlled conditions
Allows for light deprivation techniques to control flowering
Reduces reliance on artificial lighting, saving energy
Supplemental Lighting
Needed in winter or cloudy conditions to maintain plant growth
LEDs and HPS lights can be used depending on growth stage
Light Deprivation Techniques
Controlling the dark period with blackout curtains encourages flowering on schedule
Ideal for multiple harvests per year
Greenhouse growers who start with Clone Harvest clones will benefit from our strong, ready-to-flourish plants that adapt well to mixed-light environments.
Choosing the Right Lighting for Your Grow
Whether you’re growing indoors, outdoors, or in a greenhouse, lighting plays a crucial role in the success of your crop. Investing in the right setup ensures:
Faster vegetative growth
Higher cannabinoid and terpene production
More consistent, high-quality yields
At Clone Harvest, we supply top-tier hemp and cannabis clones bred for resilience and vigor, no matter your growing method. Set your grow up for success—start with premium genetics and dial in your lighting for the best results.
Order Your Hemp and Cannabis Clones Today!
Ready to get started? Browse our selection of high-quality clones and give your grow the best foundation possible. Contact Clone Harvest today to place your order and grow with confidence!