seedlings and 600W hps?!?

Hi, I have ten 4-day old easy ryder seedlings about 18 inches away from my 600W hps.. Its air cooled so it isn't really hot under at all. My question is how long should I leave the light on for? They are 4 days old and I've had the light set to an 18/6 cycle. Should I go 24/7? And if so when should I go back to 18/6 since its an autoflower? Thanks!

[video=youtube;IteNFhPuOk4]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IteNFhPuOk4[/video]

^............^ lol!

The hps is fine, you would do better with a mh bulb for veg growth, less stretching. 18/6 is just fine for small seedlings.

why do you cook your seedlings?

Kept my 600W hps 3 feet from my seedlings with a desk fan oscillating. 18" is really close.

I've had mine on 18/6 and it's going fine, I'm sure 24/7 would be fine too.

From what I've read, it seems like most ppl say if your hand isn't uncomfortably warm under the light, then it should be ok for the plants.. And it isn't warm at all at the height I have my seedlings right now.. So I should be ok right?

Also, if I leave the seedlings under 24/7 lights when would I switch to regular 18/6 cycle for veg?

no, your cooking your seedling.
That saying goes for mature plants that can take this light intensity.

You can go anywhere from 16\8 to 24\0 - up to you.
I've heard a report claiming 20\4 promotes the fastest growth but I've seen great success with all of them.