can i use aluminum foil as a reflectant

im thinking about puting aluminum foil around the bottom of the stem to help reflect some light
is this a good idea?

It will reflect some light but it may also concentrate it to areas unwanted

can you say hotspots? Just use flat white plastic sheeting if your going to go this route.

the light will reflect at oblique angles, not at the plants, and it can create hotspots because of the folds. Foil...not a good idea. Even white printer paper stapled on would work...

mylar $4 .00 a square metre from your local hydro shop.

white paper would work just as good and not cause hot spots is what your saying?

You can pick up wrapping paper that is backed with mylar...$1 a roll for 25ft

awsome that helps me out so much
thanks everybody

tsdriles06 said:

im thinking about puting aluminum foil around the bottom of the stem to help reflect some light
is this a good idea?

Click to expand...

i do it all the time on seedlings with no problems

u can use it BUT dont use shiny side out i read somewhere where its better to use the side less shiny

I use AL foil in my clone/seedling area only... and you are correct, use the not shiny side, the dull side will keep the hot spots down.

I buy my mylar from Party Warehouse, they call it mylar sheets, look in thet gift area where the gift bags are. It is used as a stuffing material in those bags.

Foil is cheap and available but is a hassle.

This is a heated debate on every forum though.