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Propogating from Seed

Over the past few years in the spring, I start both perennials and
annuals from seed under florescent lights.

It is my understanding (I'm a beginner, so correct me if I'm wrong) that
most perennials and annuals would grow better and bloom sooner from seed
if started in a greenhouse, because florescents do not mimic the full
spectrum of light from the sun.

Here is my question (finally, you say!):  is there any way to use
florescents more successfully - increasing the "spectrum" by either
adding different kind(s) of lighting, or by combining different types of
florescent light bulbs?  I don't know much about florescent light bulbs,
but I've heard them called "cool light" which I assume means they have
more of the blue spectrum.  I have also been told not to bother spending
the extra money on specific "grow light" bulbs, but it seems to me that
someone in the industry must have come up with a grow light bulb that
provides a broader spectrum of light.

What's the scoop here, gang?  Please share your thoughts and
experiences. I am teetering on the edge of going the greenhouse route to
get better results, but would prefer to stick with florescents as I have
heavily invested in this process.  HELP!

Heather in Markham, Ontario, Canada
Cda Zone 6 / USDA Zone 5
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