Grow Light for Zephyranthes: Rain Lilies in Pots
A grow light for zephyranthes helps when potted rain lilies come indoors for winter. These small bulbs like sun outdoors, so a bright lamp fills the gap on short days.
The short answer
NC State Extension notes rain lilies grow in full sun to part shade plus pots can come indoors. Mississippi State Extension lists high light as 1,000 or more footcandles. Its guide notes LED grow lights give tuned color. Cool white fluorescent tubes also work for indoor plants.
How much light do rain lilies need indoors?
NC State notes Zephyranthes candida flowers most in full sun. Indoors that means the high light range. Mississippi State groups indoor light in three bands.
| Light level | Footcandles | Fit for rain lilies |
|---|---|---|
| High | 1,000 or more | Closest to full sun |
| Medium | 500 to 1,000 | Leaves but fewer flowers |
| Low | 50 to 500 | Too dim |
Source: Mississippi State University Extension.
Which grow light works for zephyranthes?
Mississippi State notes LED grow lights are color tuned. Cool white fluorescent lamps also suit indoor plants.
Do potted rain lilies need a rest indoors?
NC State advises a cool, frost free spot with barely moist soil for pots brought in over winter. UF/IFAS notes rain lilies flower through the year when alternately wet then dry.
How to: step by step
- Bring pots in before frost.
- Set them in a cool room.
- Hang a grow light over the pots.
- Run the lamp on a timer.
- Water only when the soil is nearly dry.
- Move pots back outside after frost.
Troubleshooting
Leaves but no flowers: low light. Lower the lamp.
Bulbs rotting: wet soil. NC State advises barely moist soil in winter.
Leaves scorched outdoors: hot sun. NC State notes afternoon shade helps in extreme heat.
For lamps see grow lights for cannabis plus led light distance cannabis. Read grow light timers plus cannabis seeds. Kind Seed Co also stocks cannabis seeds.
Sources
- Zephyranthes, NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox
- Zephyranthes candida, NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox
- Care & Selection of Indoor Plants, Mississippi State University Extension
- Zephyranthes spp. Rain Lily, UF/IFAS Extension FP621
FAQ
Can rain lilies grow indoors?
NC State Extension notes containers can be brought indoors for winter.
How much light do rain lilies need?
NC State notes full sun gives the most flowers. Mississippi State lists high indoor light as 1,000 or more footcandles.
Do LED grow lights work for zephyranthes?
Mississippi State notes LED grow lights are color tuned. Cool white fluorescent lamps also suit indoor plants.
How often should potted rain lilies be watered?
UF/IFAS notes rain lilies flower through the year when alternately wet then dry.
Where should rain lilies sit in winter?
NC State advises a cool, frost free spot with barely moist soil.
