Hi, at the very start of my grow cycle (veg) once my germinated seeds are in the pots I put them in my grow tent and use 4 125w CFL lights for 8 unsprouted plants. I have them very close to the pots until they spout. Once they have all sprouted and are on to there 2nd node I add an extra 2 125w CFL lights. So I use a total of 6 lights (750w total) for 8 plants, when they are at the final stages of VEG I may add an extra 1 or 2 125w CFLs. I don't use a dome IMO it has always worked for me without one. The amount of light depends on the amount of plants ofcourse. For 6 plants I would use a total of 4 CFLs minimum 125w each, I have been growing a while now and I get good results with the above ^. The more light the better, as long as your not burning your plants. Hope this helps. Good Luck .. GW