BS CFLS at that wattage range can return results as good as a 400 HPS. Their PAR rating is so close that it is redic.
Stop listening to one persons misinformation about CFLS. If they are used properly they do produce. Infact Roseman consistently looks to harvest lbs with them.
CFL PAr rating and their ability to be kept close to the plant are their two best points.
Lumen ratings are at 1 foot generally, so if your cfl is 2700 lumens at a foot it should be 5400 at half a foot.
Do what you can, grow what you can, and learn.
It is your first time so have fun, pro equipment doesn't mean shit. The Sun always beats a light for production but you don't see outside growers harping on inside growers for doing it all wrong so...
The key to the dumb ass comment here is you will constantly be moving lights to be an inch from the plant all around it. Plants can grow an inch a day in flower so every day hassle or burn em. No hassle with hps just put the plants about 9-12 inchs away and be done till next water usually. If you notice I said questionable results with cfl (IN FLOWER). You wont waste much money in cfls light bulbs because when you get tired of moving lights you can use the cfl in your house. You are not misinformed when you have the experience. HASSLE is key. If you don't have the money fine, you should go with cfls. You will need about $500 to get it done with hps, fans, venting.
If your just starting go with cfl for 3-4 weeks veg. I suggest Fox Farm Ocean Forest soil without question from a hydro store for success. That way you don't need nuts. in veg (4 weeks) and wont kill em with nuts.
What I am doing is overall going to save you money and with 2 grows vs. buying locally off the streets your money is a returned investment.
Oh, Roseman is unique and a great grower with experience in these parts. You will find a rare cfl (flowering) grower. Not many with experience. I wonder how much time he spends in a huge cfl grow? Rare breed...
My suggestion take a look at this companys products and this cfl for veg.
http://www.htgsupply.com/viewproduct.asp?productID=51907 and can be used for flower. It is HOcfl so the High Output is great. Ive burned young plants and seedlings with it at 3 inchs. 9 inchs is normal for HOcfls. the cfls you buy from lowes are not as strong and can be put an inch away. I stopped partaking in cfl threads upon hps buy because all the cfl kids (I am sure most are young and have no money) because they get sensitive and thro stupid numbers out. Stay open minded if your into this hobby for results continue your search for hps. I have the perfect set up for up to 6 plants. A closet with one side cfl veg. and other side 400 watt hps lumatek. An s and p fan for low noise. Get a air cooled hood of choice.
Lastly, no way to be busted if you dont talk about it. Period, The scoop ive been hearing is for every person you tell about your grow- being busted goes up 10%. NOone needs to know other then you have great weed and not where you get it. The most difficult thing is to be toasted and a great grow going you want to show friends. Don't do it......Talk here and not to anyone else you will be good...Oh, and most importantly is the smell Carbon filter. Good Luck, I am not back on this thread to compare hps/cfl.