Lighting for high light required plants

[Reesestapper]

I want to add some high light requiring plants in my newly setup 20 gallon tall. I have organic potting soil with regular petco rocks on top. What kind of lighting should i use to get best results. I'm only in high school so the cheapest way possible would be nice.

 

[jetajockey]

If you are intending to run co2 I'd get a 2 bulb t5ho, the cheap ones from oddysea are like $40 or so. You may be able to run it with 1 bulb also until you get the co2 sorted but I probably wouldn't try it otherwise. A t5NO would probably work fairly well also.
http://www.aquatraders.com/24-inch-2x24W-T5-Aquarium-Light-Fixture-p/52121p.htm

 

[Reesestapper]

Is Co2 a must? If so what are some inexpensive ways to add Co2?

 

[jetajockey]

You could try DIY co2 although I much prefer pressurized. More light = more demand for ferts and co2, you have to do it all relatively in-sync otherwise you are just begging for algae problems.

 

[Reesestapper]

Ok last question. Would compact fluorescent bulbs work as a good lighting?

 

[jetajockey]

Yes, 2 23w CFLs on the tank would work fine although it'd put you around low to medium light. You could still grow plants like this but don't expect intense compact growth.