Daily Light Integral (DLI) Calculator

DLI Formula:

\[ DLI = \frac{PPFD \times 3600 \times Hours}{1,000,000} \]

DLI (mol/m²/day):

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1. What is Daily Light Integral (DLI)?

Definition: DLI measures the total amount of photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) delivered to plants over a 24-hour period.

Purpose: It helps growers optimize light conditions for plant growth in greenhouses, indoor farms, and research settings.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ DLI = \frac{PPFD \times 3600 \times Hours}{1,000,000} \]

Where:

\( DLI \) — Daily Light Integral (mol/m²/day)
\( PPFD \) — Photosynthetic Photon Flux Density (µmol/m²/s)
\( Hours \) — Daily light exposure duration (hours)

Explanation: PPFD is converted to mol/m² by multiplying by seconds per hour (3600) and hours of exposure, then divided by 1,000,000 to convert µmol to mol.

3. Importance of DLI Calculation

Details: Proper DLI ensures optimal plant growth, flowering, and fruiting. Different plants have specific DLI requirements for healthy development.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter PPFD (measured with a quantum sensor) and daily light exposure duration. Both values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a typical PPFD range for plants?
A: Most crops thrive at 200-800 µmol/m²/s, but this varies by species and growth stage.

Q2: What's a good DLI for vegetables?
A: Leafy greens need 12-17 mol/m²/day, while fruiting vegetables require 20-30+ mol/m²/day.

Q3: How do I measure PPFD?
A: Use a quantum PAR meter or specialized grow light controller with PAR sensors.

Q4: Does natural sunlight provide enough DLI?
A: Outdoor DLI ranges from 5-60 mol/m²/day, but indoor/greenhouse growers often need supplemental lighting.

Q5: Why is DLI important for hydroponics?
A: In controlled environments, precise DLI management maximizes growth while minimizing energy costs.