A Gardeners Forum Forums Gardening Reference Gardening in 2007 A question about types of grow bulbs ...

Hello all,
I just picked up a three-tier grow light to start some of my veggie seeds ... but I'm wondering what type of bulb I should use. The instructions call for 40W fluorescent bulbs, which are easy to find, but I'm wondering if the "plant & Aquarium" grow bulbs or the "Natural Sunlight" bulbs would be better. Any thoughts on the matter?

Thanks,
Frann

The best thing to do is to provide a higher temperature bulb(expressed in degrees K). Say 5500K or greater. The ones that simulate natural sunlight or "daylight" would be better as they provide more of a full spectrum of visible light. These are in the area of 6500K. plant and aquarium bulbs are usually much more expensive and not worth the extra cost, especially if you are only using the lamps to start seedlings.

I'm using the standard fluorescent bulbs and my Romas are growing great--they are now up to about 3 inches tall and will be planted in the garden in about 2 weeks. Can't argue with success!

I use the regular fluorescent tubes and have been for years, they work fine for all my veggie and herb plants.

I've got mine in my east facing window and they are doing great.

Mine are on the patio table in indirect sunlight.

Thanks!