New to indoor How many cfl's for seedlings ?

[Grow nh]

OK as title stated I am new to indoor growing. I have gone with CFL's for lights, I have made up a hanging fixture that can hold 8 bulbs. Right now I have 23w 1600 lum. 5600k
I am thinking all 8 is going to be to much for my seedling. I would gladly accept any comments and help from your experience's

Thanks in advance.

 

[Grow nh]

 

[Spimp]

You could grow seedlings using 1,000 CFL's just fine. If the distance was right. Putting 8 bulbs on top of them may be too much. But the dimishing penetration of CFL's is so significant that 1 inch makes a ton of difference.

I would start the bulbs about a foot or so away and see how they respond. if growth is stretchy, ove them closer. If they cowar or roll the edge of leaves, move them farther away.
Hope that helps!

 

[Grow nh]

Thanks Spimp
I have been reading as much as possible about CFL's and was reading about people keeping them 1-2 inches away. Thought it just might be a little close for
the young one's
Anyway I have them about 4-6 inches now and they seem to be doing good.

 

[Spimp]

Ya 6 inches seems decent but I have burned a cola from cfl's in my last journey so err on 2-3 inches further than you think. I have 10 26w running and I am at like 8" with my rig.
I like your lighting rig. Can you position each light indepentetly? If so that is sweet!

 

[Grow nh]

Yes I can move them.
Started with a plan then changed it once I got to Lowes, ended up with metal double switch box with cover- 4 small flood light sockets (on sale 2.50ea) then added Y's . They seem to work out , have them hanging with a rope so easy to move.

I did have them closer for a while, but just looked like the plants where not happy. I moved lights up now see how it looks over the next few day's