How close to the lights will the orchids live? If the the track lighting is on the ceiling and the orchids are table height, the lights will not do them any good. You would also be limited as to the size of the bulb you use because most of the brighter CFL's are longer than a "normal" incandescent light bulb.

If the track lighting is located within a foot or two of the plants, then CFL's would help the situation. Don't worry about spectrum, go for the brightest which is a cool white.

Brooke

The bulbs are about 2.5-3 feet above the plants. So you don't think the spectrum makes a difference?

No, brightness is the most needed type light. I grow and bloom orchids under fluorescent cool whites - Sylvania Cool White Plus is the name.

I read your post on the Orchid forum and you got some great suggestions. Heat and additional light are needed for your orchids to flourish.

Do a google for IKEA floor lamps - these are fairly cheap, nice looking and can help add light to your shelves. I use three of those in my display area for blooming orchids. I currently use three in a 4' long area. When I don't need them, I just sit them around a room. You can use the 100 watt equivelant CFL in the floor lamps. It would also help heat the surrounding area of your display area.

A small oil filled heater would also bump the temp in that vicinity and not break the bank. Between lights and the heater on low, you can easily bump the temp by 5 degrees.

Good luck - hope your orchids get happier and bloom for you.

Brooke