☀️ Daily Light Integral Calculator
Calculate DLI to match crop light requirements in greenhouses, grow rooms, or nurseries.
How to Use This Calculator
Measure PPFD
Use a quantum sensor or manufacturer data at canopy level.
Enter hours of light
Include natural and supplemental light duration.
Compare to crop targets
Align DLI with recommended ranges for species and growth stage.
Formula
DLI = PPFD × Photoperiod × 3600 ÷ 1,000,000
DLI represents the total photons received per square meter each day, expressed in moles of photons (mol·m⁻²·day⁻¹).
Full Description
Daily light integral informs lighting strategies in controlled environments. Meeting species-specific DLI reduces crop time, enhances flowering, and increases biomass.
Combine DLI with temperature and humidity monitoring to fine-tune vapor pressure deficit (VPD) and overall plant health.
Frequently Asked Questions
What DLI do leafy greens need?
Many leafy greens thrive at 12–17 mol·m⁻²·day⁻¹, while fruiting crops need 20+.
How do I increase DLI?
Increase PPFD with stronger fixtures or extend photoperiod, staying within crop limits.
Can DLI be too high?
Yes. Excess light can cause photoinhibition or increase cooling loads. Monitor leaf temperature and stress.
Does supplemental CO₂ change DLI requirements?
CO₂ enrichment can support higher light intensity by enabling more photosynthesis, but target ranges remain crop-specific.