Countertop Harvest
By the Countertop Harvest team · Last updated
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Short answer: a full-spectrum LED with a built-in timer is the best value for a few herb pots. Clip-on gooseneck lights suit 1–3 pots; a bar or strip light suits a shelf.
What to look for
- Full spectrum (white-looking) LED: easier to live with in a kitchen than purple light.
- Built-in timer (aim for 12–14 h on).
- Height adjustment: keep the light about 4–12 in above the plants (follow the maker's guidance).
- Real wattage, not "equivalent" wattage.
- Coverage that matches your pots.
Picks by setup
Clip-on gooseneck
Best for 1–3 pots
- Cheapest option
- Clamps to a shelf or table edge
LED bar / strip
Best for a shelf of pots
- Even coverage
- Mounts under cabinets
Standing lamp-style
Best for looks
- Blends into living spaces
Grow bulb in an existing lamp
Cheapest swap
- Fine for a single plant
Setup tips
Run 12–14 h a day on the timer. If stems stretch, lower the light; if leaves bleach, raise it.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best cheap grow light for herbs?
A full-spectrum LED with a built-in timer is the best value for a few herb pots.
How many hours a day should a grow light run?
Run it 12–14 hours a day on the timer.
How far should the light be from the plants?
About 4–12 inches above the plants; follow the maker's guidance. If stems stretch, lower the light; if leaves bleach, raise it.
Which type of light should I choose?
A clip-on gooseneck suits 1–3 pots; an LED bar or strip suits a shelf of pots.