An easy rule of thumb: Fluorescent bulbs are often used when growing just a handful of plants LEDs are preferable for larger quantities since you can achieve higher light intensity per square foot. LED grow bulbs are capable of much greater light intensity than fluorescent bulbs and are available in full-spectrum form. The average LED bulb from the hardware store is not designed for plant growth, however – you need special, a relatively new technology that is increasingly available from horticultural suppliers. While they are considerably more expensive than fluorescent bulbs, LEDs use half the electricity and last five times longer, more than paying for themselves in the long run. Look for specialized full-spectrum fluorescent grow bulbs (like this, or, which fits into a standard socket) to provide the right balance of light for flowering plants. Compact fluorescent bulbs (CFLs) are an option for small spaces, or if you don’t like the look of long rectangular fluorescent light fixtures – CFLs will screw into an ordinary incandescent light fixture. , which are narrower in diameter than T12s (but still widely available wherever lightbulbs are sold), have a much higher light intensity, making them suitable as a sole light source for sun-loving plants. They are fairly weak in light intensity, however, and must be placed within a few inches of the foliage to have much of an effect. The standard fluorescent bulb, commonly denoted T12, makes a decent grow light for houseplants, starting seeds, supplementing the natural light of a window, and other situations where lighting needs are modest. PHOTO: By Falcona / Fluorescent Grow Lights Full-spectrum fluorescent lights – either of the tube or standard CFL variety – are a great choice when starting seeds indoors.

Sunblaze fluorescent grow lights