Grow Lights for Leggy Succulents: Fix Stretched Plants
Grow lights for leggy succulents help stretched rosettes push compact new growth. Iowa State University Extension notes tall, spindly, pale new growth means light levels are too low. Rosette types open up plus flatten their leaves to catch more light. A lamp close above the plants corrects that.
The short answer
Leggy succulents are short on light. Iowa State University Extension advises setting plants within 12 inches of a full spectrum fluorescent or LED grow light on a timer for 12 to 16 hours a day. Stretched stems do not shrink back, so cut back lanky growth plus let new growth form under the lamp.
Why do succulents get leggy?
Iowa State University Extension notes tall, spindly, lanky new growth that is pale signals low light. University of Minnesota Extension notes succulents need abundant light plus a bright sunny window. In a dim spot, stems stretch with wide gaps between leaves.
| Sign | Cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Tall pale new growth | Light too low | Add a grow light |
| Rosette opens plus flattens | Reaching for light | Move plants closer to the lamp |
| Soft yellow leaves | Too much water | Let the soil dry fully |
| Tan patches on leaves | Sudden bright sun | Shift light slowly |
Source: Iowa State University Extension.
How close should the grow light be?
Iowa State University Extension advises setting plants within 12 inches of the light source. University of Minnesota Extension advises fluorescent tubes 6 to 12 inches above the plants for 14 to 16 hours each day. Start near 12 inches, then lower the lamp if stretching continues.
Can a leggy succulent go back to normal?
Stretched stems stay stretched. Iowa State University Extension notes some species recover over time while others need pruning or cutting back to remove lanky growth. It notes many barrel cacti hold misshapen growth for good. University of Minnesota Extension notes stem cuttings are an easy way to propagate succulents.
How to: step by step
- Place plants within 12 inches of the lamp.
- Use a full spectrum fluorescent or LED light.
- Set a timer for 12 to 16 hours.
- Cut back lanky stems once new growth firms up.
- Let cut stems callus plus root as cuttings.
- Water only when the soil is dry.
Troubleshooting
New growth still stretches: the lamp is too far. Lower it.
Tan or brown patches: light changed too fast. Change conditions gradually.
Soft mushy leaves: too much water. Let the soil dry fully.
For more on lighting see grow lights for cannabis, led light distance cannabis, grow light timers plus cannabis seeds. Kind Seed Co also stocks seeds for indoor growers.
Sources
- Common problems and issues of succulents, Iowa State University Extension
- Cacti and succulents (houseplants), University of Minnesota Extension
- Succulents, UF IFAS Gardening Solutions
- Lighting indoor houseplants (G6515), University of Missouri Extension
FAQ
How many hours of light do succulents need?
Iowa State University Extension notes plants ideally get ten or more hours of light a day. It advises a timer set for 12 to 16 hours under grow lights. University of Minnesota Extension advises 14 to 16 hours each day under fluorescent tubes placed 6 to 12 inches above the plants.
Should I cut the top off a stretched succulent?
Iowa State University Extension notes some succulents need pruning or cutting back to remove lanky growth plus let new growth form under enough light. University of Minnesota Extension notes stem cuttings are an easy way to propagate succulents. Root the cut top in a well drained mix.
Does watering cause leggy growth?
Low light is the main cause. Iowa State University Extension notes overwatered succulents show yellow, soft, mushy leaves instead. It advises letting the soil dry thoroughly between waterings. University of Minnesota Extension notes that in low light winter months succulents need only enough water to prevent shrinking.
Which soil suits succulents under lights?
University of Minnesota Extension advises a well drained mix such as one part potting soil plus one part coarse sand. It advises pots with drainage holes. UF/IFAS Gardening Solutions advises a shallow clay or terra cotta container plus a coarse sand mix that dries between waterings.
Can grow lights burn succulents?
Sudden change can. Iowa State University Extension notes sun scald shows as brown or tan patches when plants move from low light into bright light too fast. Damaged areas will not recover. Raise the lamp at first, then lower it over a few weeks so plants adjust slowly.
