Relying solely on lights - advice for my next setup?

[SheilaJ]

I got a 4 tube T5 high output fixture a year ago on ebay from a seller called "greatlights4less!" I am very pleased with it. I forget the price - maybe $175 to $200? Be careful reading the listings, though - he lists a fixture with 8 bulbs, but it's a 4 tube fixture with 2 sets of bulbs, not an 8 tube fixture.

I've misplaced my light meter, but this puppy is blazingly bright. I am currently flowering tropical waterlilies under it! With my old cheap shop lights, they merely survived through the winter with tiny leaves and no buds.

I too have longed for a greenhouse, but I couldn't afford the heating bills, especially now that energy prices are going up so fast. Growing under lights is definitely the way to go, if you have the room. I currently have a 9x11 foot spare bedroom full of lights, and I am working on expanding into the basement or playroom (hubby has put his foot down for now). Hmmm, once the kid leaves for college, her bedroom would make a nice orchid room....

[calvin_orchidL]

Originally Posted by SheilaJ

I got a 4 tube T5 high output fixture a year ago on ebay from a seller called "greatlights4less!" I am very pleased with it.

Hi Sheila! I have also looked at the lights offered by this seller! I was worried that the quality wouldn't be as good since it seems they are relatively cheaper than the other lights, and I couldn't find a brand name on their listing....but if you are happy with them, I may try them as well (I'm on a really tight student budget...while it's nice to make the investment, it may not actually be possible!)

Do you have a light meter and if so, have you measured the FC output? I'd be interested to know how it compares to the new wave brand which ross was recommending. Does each bulb have it's own reflector or is there one big reflector for all of them?
Sorry for all the questions!! Thanks!