My seedlings are getting leggy.
They are growing under a 400 watt metal halide light, about 4 feet from the light with an 18 hour light cycle. They also have an oscillating fan set on low blowing on them once they reach about an inch high. I give them up to an ounce maximum of water when the light goes off, less depending on size and how dry they are within a quarter inch from the top.
I don't understand why some are getting so leggy. If it keeps up, I might have to re-sow quite a few things, so I'd like some opinions as to a solution if you got one. Or just let me know what kind of lighting system you use and how that works for you. You can also make a quick vote on the poll over to the upper right of this page. Thanks in advance. Any advice is greatly appreciated. That goes for always, by the way. If you see us doing something incredibly dumb that's probably not going to work out, feel free to let us know. I'd much rather fix it early than have to start something over.
There's been no more activity in the yard to report on. It's been raining and the next clear day isn't until Thursday, which is sandwiched between more rain. Oy.
High: 55 Low: 42, rain; Lunar Phase: Waxing Gibbous, 92% of full.
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
5 visitors:
How bright and how hot does that light get? I would guess that the light is too far from the plants. That's what causes them to get all leggy like that. They are stretching to get the light.
I use full spectrum fluorescent lights and they are as close to the flats of seedlings as I can get them, without actually touching the seedlings.
Carol, May Dreams Gardens
That's called etiolation. Lower the lights and all will be well.
Thank you ladies!
I moved them up quite a bit, and before the light comes on tonight we'll adjust that better.
And thanks for the vocabulary word too. Now when I look at them I say 'etiolation' like all the power is gone out of it. It's like finally getting a diagnosis of a mystery illness. heehee -Jen :)
My tomatoes are too leggy as well. Luckily it is easy to just plant them deeper. Carol and Di are right. Move them closer to the light.
Update: They are nearly 2 feet closer to the light and are doing well. Thank you everyone for your help! -Jen :)
Post a Comment