Grow Light for Columbine Seedlings: Sturdy Starts
A grow light for columbine seedlings gives these spring flowering perennials a sturdy start indoors. NC State Extension describes columbine as a plant that prefers moist, well drained soil in part shade. Follow the seed packet for sowing, hang lamps close plus plant out into a lightly shaded bed.
The short answer
Sow columbine as the seed packet directs, since University of Minnesota Extension notes that each species has its own needs. Hang fluorescent or LED lights a few inches above the seedlings plus run them about 16 hours a day. Harden plants off, then set them in part shade.
How should columbine seed be sown?
Follow the packet. University of Minnesota Extension advises sowing fresh seed according to package directions, as each species has its own requirements. If unsure, plant a seed about twice as deep as its width.
Fresh seed matters. The same source notes that fewer seeds from a packet germinate over time. Store leftover seed in an airtight container in a cool place, with the refrigerator as ideal.
| Stage | Light distance | Daily hours |
|---|---|---|
| Seedlings indoors | A few inches above tops | 16 hours, 18 at most |
| Garden planting | Part shade | Full sun only if soil stays moist |
Source: Illinois Extension plus NC State Extension.
How close should lights hang?
Very close. University of Maryland Extension advises lights no more than 4 inches above the seedling tops, with 2 inches as ideal. Illinois Extension runs seedlings on a timer for 16 hours of light per day, with 18 hours as the maximum.
Illinois Extension also notes that without enough light, seedlings become leggy, with stretched stem sections between the leaves.
When should seedlings move outside?
After hardening off. University of Minnesota Extension schedules hardening off for all seedlings in early to mid May in Minnesota, so adjust that to your own frost date.
Choose the spot with care. NC State Extension notes that columbine tolerates full sun in moist soil but is intolerant of wet, poorly drained soils.
How to: step by step
- Sow fresh seed following the packet.
- Set lamps 2 to 4 inches over the seedlings.
- Use a timer for about 16 hours of light daily.
- Thin to one seedling per cell when true leaves form.
- Water until the mix is moist, not wet.
- Acclimate plus plant in part shade.
Troubleshooting
Few sprouts: old seed. University of Minnesota Extension notes that fewer seeds germinate over time, so sow two or more older seeds per cell.
Leggy stems: weak light. Lower the lamp to a few inches above the tops.
Seedlings collapsing at the soil line: damping off. University of Minnesota Extension notes that bottom heat can help prevent it, so warm the mix plus water less.
For related reading see cannabis seedling light schedule, leggy cannabis seedlings plus hardening off cannabis seedlings. Kind Seed Co also stocks cannabis seeds.
Sources
- Aquilegia, NC State Extension Plant Toolbox
- Starting seeds indoors, University of Minnesota Extension
- Grow lights for starting seeds indoors, University of Maryland Extension
- Supplemental lighting for indoor seed starting, Illinois Extension
FAQ
How long do columbines live?
Not long. NC State Extension notes that columbines are fairly short lived, about 2 to 3 years, but will spread by seed. That habit means a few plants often turn into a lasting patch. Fresh indoor starts are an easy way to fill gaps as older plants fade.
When does columbine bloom?
In spring. NC State Extension notes that the flowers generally appear in spring in many colors that attract hummingbirds plus pollinators. They help fill the gap between early spring bulbs plus summer blooming plants. Plants grow from half a foot to 3 feet tall, with thick rhizomatous roots.
How should leftover seed be stored?
University of Minnesota Extension advises storing seed packets in an airtight container in a cool place, with the refrigerator as ideal. A packet of silica gel holds humidity low inside. Fewer seeds germinate over time, so sow more than one older seed per cell to make up for losses.
Does columbine need shade?
It prefers part shade. NC State Extension notes that columbine likes moist, average, well drained soil in part shade but will tolerate full sun if the soil stays moist. It is intolerant of wet, poorly drained soils. A lightly shaded border or woodland edge suits it well.
Why are columbine seedlings stretching?
Too little light. Illinois Extension notes that without enough light, seedlings become leggy, with stretched stem sections between the leaves. University of Maryland Extension advises lights no more than 4 inches above the seedling tops, with 2 inches as ideal. Lower the lamp plus run it about 16 hours daily.
