They will work, you wont get the best buds but it will work. Some people swear by it. They really dont have the right Lumens, or the right sprectum.. You really need a Metal Halide for Veg, and High Pressure Sodium for Flowering.. (of course someone else will tell you different).. You can veg 18/24 or 24/24.. some people swear by 24/24 others say there is a diminishing return.. I would say 18/24.. I am also a newbie, and I am realizing this an artform.. You have picassos and monets... Your gonna get a hundred answers, but you will get the help you need.. I say get HPS for aroun $120.00