Just use several CFLs in the 2700k spectrum range and 6500k spectrum. Use like a 2 to 1 ratio on the spectrum with 2 6500k to 1 2700k.

Make sure you buy the nice big CFL lamp, look in a few different stores before buying.

The only real keys you need to know are:

1) Avoid incandescents, halogens, and low pressure sodium.
2) Plants need a *LOT* of light.

Where can I find a 6500k bulb? I saw 2700k bulbs at Menards. They also had some smaller ones called plant lights. Do I need larger than a regular-sized CFL bulb?

Thanks.

Not all plants need alot of light. What kind of plants do you have? I believe 5000k is as close to the spectrum of sunlight as you can get hence the 2x 6500K + 2700K = 5233.33etc that was stated earlier. You could also get a reading type desk lamp that will hold a T8 fluorescent tube that you can find at lowes or home depot in the correct spectrum.

I have a couple of ivies, a peace lily, jade, a spider plant, aloe, and a few that I don't know what they are but they didn't do too well last winter with less light.

- Where can I find a 6500k bulb?

You may also see 6500k labeled as 'Daylight' ... it should
have a light-blue-ish color when on.

A regular CFL should be fine...just don't go with the
lowest-wattage they sell

Personally if it wasn't in your living room i'd recommend
using a standard 48" shoplight over CFLs

eltoe422 your ivies, peace lily and aloe should do fine under lights. I'm not sure about the spider plant but if I remember correctly they don't need much. The jade will do better in full sun but if you don't have it then put it as close to the lights as you can get it.

All good advice. I would just add that CFL will do a lot better if they have some kind of reflector behind them.