I am learning about container gardening. I am growing herbs and veggies in my house. There is not enough light for some of the plants. My question is; is there a significant difference between a grow light and a regular fluorescent? What really is best for my plants?
I just saw a post that said you can buy fluorescent bulb that give off the same light as grow light and cheaper to use lowe I hope will have them because I want to try that instead of grow lite I am not sure if one is better or not just cost less to use Good luck
Nope. Any of the big box stores will have a full-spectrum fluorescent bulb, and that will do just fine. It's much cheaper, too, and can be placed in a standard light socket. If you can't find that, look for the fluorescent bulbs with color temperatures about 4,000 K (rather blue). The last choice would be a standard fluorescent with a color temperature around 2,700 K (the color of an incandescent bulb or a bit too red for most plants). A good grow light would probably be best, but it's certainly not necessary. The full-spectrum light will output enough for your plants in the regions of the spectrum that they like.
Technically, you don't NEED a grow light. Regardless, it would be a good idea. Fluorescent lights aren't specially made for gardening purposes, and grow lights are softer and less harsh on the plants.
