Lighting Question
 

Hi all,

Just have a newbie question regarding fluorescent light and natural light.

I currently have a north facing window (with a skinner windows on each side angled to the west and east - see pic)

Living in Canada and trying out the windowsill method, I'm not certain if I am getting enough light. I bought an office lamp with a fluorescent light bulb. I heard fluorescent light bulbs is an alternative to more expensive plant bulbs...but how effective would this be? Will it make a difference? I'm sure with summer coming, my natural light will improve greatly but until then I thought this might help out a little.

Just was wanting thoughts and some suggestions. On a budget at the moment as well.

Thanks!

I use an energy saver at about a 120 watt equivalent light for my terrarium. I look for "Daylight" bulbs, or those that are nearest to 6500k as possible. But be aware that every bit it moves away from the plants, you loose light and the beneficial things coming from it, even if it looks like adequate light to your eyes. Just be aware that the bulbs do create heat, so if your plants can't take it or need a cool down then consider a fan to help disperse that heat.

Bear in mind, this was all advice given to me and I ran with it. Seems to be working quite well!


Paul McMahon
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD

Thanks Paul. I bought fluorescent bulbs with a 40watt equvialent, so its probably not helping at all. I figured any kind of fluorescent lighting would be decent, I'll have to find a higher watt bulb next time I go to the store.