Fluorescent bulbs usually have the amount of lumens on the package. Plus, the package might give a color rating in K for Kelvin. Try to get one that are 6500k. I have some that are 1,600 lumens, and have a 5500 K rating, and they seem to work well. I had four of those on one plant for a total of 6,400 lumens. I had it at about 1-2 inches from the top of the plant.
Also, at Home Depot I picked up a couple Fluorex brand fluorescent floodlights. I wanted to get two 100 watt floodlights, but they only had one 100 watt light. So, I bought a 100 watt light and an 85 watt light. The 100 watt bulb puts out 10,500 lumens and the 85 watt bulb puts out 8,500 lumens. Both lights are rated at 6500 K. The floodlights were somewhat expensive, though. the 100 watt light, including fixture and bulb cost about $60.00. I forget what the 85 watt light cost. It was cheaper than the 100 watt light.
If there isn't a Kelvin rating on the bulb package, then look for Daylight. You want Daylight, not soft or bright white.
Remember, you want a minimum of 3000 lumens per square foot. You can get away with less lumens per square foot for vegetative growth, but for flowering you really want to have at least 3000 lumens per square foot. However, try to get a minimum of 3000 lumens even if veg, if possible.
Fluorescents can do a nice job for vegging. You just need to get enough of them. Plus, place them about 1-2 inches away. If that's too hot for them, then try 3 inches.
