Light Leaks in Flower: Why They Ruin Harvests
During flower, the dark period must actually be dark. Interrupted darkness is one of the leading causes of hermaphrodite plants and stalled, airy buds.
Where leaks come from
Tent zipper seams, unsealed cable ports, the passive intake flap, LED driver status lights, timers and power strips with indicator LEDs, and the door of the room the tent sits in.
The five-minute test
Wait for lights out, turn off every light in the room, sit inside or next to the tent for five full minutes so your eyes adjust, then look for glow. Anything you can see, the plant can see.
Fixes
Gaffer tape over seams and ports, electrical tape over indicator LEDs, a light-proof duct sleeve on passive intakes, and moving power strips outside the tent.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I use a green headlamp during lights-out?
- Brief green light is widely used and generally low-risk, but the safest habit is doing all your work during the light period.
Keep reading
Legal notice: We do not promote or encourage breaking the law. This site is for adults 21+ growing in states and jurisdictions that have legalized cannabis cultivation, and who are following all legal growing guidelines, plant count limits, and permit requirements that apply to them.