This has been REALLY helpful. I've finally learned about T-bulbs, after all these years LOL!
I may hang in with my back-ordered T-5 system and make do with the home-made system that I presently have set up in the basement to get the early seeds started. What I've learned from this informative thread (thanks, guys) is that I might splurge on purchasing some of the Verilux full-apectrum T-12 lights that Joanna mentions above.
I found this on the net, $50 for a four-pack). Perhaps I could find it cheaper if I look around more:
40 Watt, 48" (F40T12VLX4 - T12)
Natural Spectrum Lighting
Each case of Full Spectrum Medium Bipin 40 Watt, 48" Fluorescent Tubes contains 4 tubes.
What I'm wondering is whether I could just use these in the inexpensive Phillips two-bulb 48" shop-light fixtures from Home Depot (rated T-12) that I presently have? Or do I need to purchase new, more up-graded fixtures to handle these new lights?
Ah yes, germinating your own seed for your garden saves you SO much money!! ;-)
