Need some light suggestions

Im looking for a light for my 55 gal FW planted tank. I either want T5 or LED. If its Led then id also like it to be reef compatible just in case i decide to do that fiasco again lol.

Anyways, right now i have a 150 watt MH LIGHT FOR THE WHOLE 4 foot tank
And im just not very happy with plant growth and it doesnt light the tank very evenly :/

Long story short, whats everyone recomend in the 200 to 300 dollar range lol

 

I accidently pressed reef lighting my bad...

 

try Ebay, in most cases you will want to upgrade the bulbs but since your just starting out the stock bulbs should get you through the first 6 months without any issues.

your looking for at least a 4 x 54watt fixture

EBAY 48" light fixtures

 

Is there a brand i could just go buy? Rmbarrasingly enough, im terrible at bidding:-[

 

Look for Aquaticlife fixtures; they are modular and you can buy a 2 bulb unit to start which will be plenty for your tank and you can add another 2 bulb unit later if you go reef.

 

So only two bulbs for a planted? Are you sure thats enough light?

 

Positive, my 75 gallon has done very well with 2 lights. I am using 3 to get a better spread since my tank is 5" wider than yours. You will need to be prepared to dose Mg, Ca, Fe, K, micros, No3, PO4 and CO2 with those lights or you will have an algae farm. Using your tap water will with most of those except K and CO2 in my experience.

 

I just got flourish fert. And flourish tabs. Would that be good enough dosing?

 

You will need Excel and dose it daily and potassium. You may need to dose the K at 5 times the recommended amount. You may also need to dose Excel at 2 to 3 times the recommended dose.

 

I dont quite remember but does a 55 Have a center brace? I got a new LED fixture and it lights up 3/4th my tank pretty bright (120g, 4'). We will be running 2 over our 125 g(6').