quick question. does CFL bulbs fit into The same reflector as HPS bulbs?
No they do not. CFL bulbs are internally or self-ballasted as cc2012 pointed out. A ballast regulates the flow of current to the bulb, so that the bulb operates properly. For example, HID lamps need much more electricity to ignite the lamp than they do thereafter, once the arc tube has warmed up. An HID bulb needs a ballast specific to the wattage and type of bulb (e.g. 600 watt high pressure sodium). I think they have different sized mogul sockets, anyways.
If you're getting random seeds someone pulled from a bag of bud you can at least try to check if they are matured. Wash your hands. Then, you should be able to roll a mature, uncompromised seed in between the tips of your thumb and index finger, applying some pressure and it will not break or crumble. If yours does then it most certainly would not have germinated.
A seed younger seed with a healthy embryo has cells which are full of water. Seeds that are up to a few years old (which were properly stored) don't need to be soaked. Older seeds might stand to be soaked for a brief period of time. Cannabis is not an aquatic plant though. Furthermore, the seed/seedling needs air exchange with the outside environment: plant roots require oxygen.
Direct to potting mix is best and most practical, IMO. Soil surface temperatures should be at least 72*.
