The DLI maps are valuable because they allow growers better management of the light environment of their plants. For example, one can estimate the number of days per year that supplemental lighting may be necessary to achieve the desired plant growth during winter months or how much shade cloth may be required to reduce the light intensity delivered to crops during the summer months.
The new maps provide high-resolution data. For example, an individual data point for every 10 km2 across the U.S., from 21st-century data. GPN Magazine published the previous version of the maps in 2002. The editor said that this issue was the most requested one that they have ever had.
- The lighting companies have placed copies of the maps on their website and regularly pass them along to customers.
- Growers have frequently posted copies of the maps on their office walls to remember the dramatic changes in DLI that occur from monthly through the year.
- Educators have regularly used the maps to help to demonstrate the dynamic nature of horticultural light management to both growers and students.