T12 vs T8 Fluorescent Lighting for Carnivorous Plants: Which Is Better?

T12 vs T8 Fluorescent Lighting for Carnivorous Plants: Which Is Better?

Devon plans two 4-foot, 4-lamp T12 fixtures (8 × 3300-lumen bulbs = 26,400 lumens) for Venus flytraps, pitcher plants, Nepenthes, sundews, and butterworts. Currently using 1000-lumen grow light + window sun. Room ~72.5°F.

Setup Will Work Well

The proposed dual-fixture T12 setup mirrors the nursery's seedling/cutting shelves. It's sufficient.

Consider T8 Instead

• T8 (32W): More energy-efficient, maintains lumen output longer.
• T12 (40W): Brighter initially but dims noticeably after 2–3 months; rarely lasts a year.

T8s are the better long-term investment.

Key Takeaway

Two 4-lamp T12 fixtures work, but T8s hold brightness longer and use less power. Either will grow your plants well.