Grow Lights for Pachyphytum: Plump Moonstones That Stay Compact
Grow lights for pachyphytum fill in when a window gives this succulent too little light. UC Cooperative Extension lists Pachyphytum among full sun succulents, and University of Minnesota Extension says succulents need lots of light and that artificial lighting can make up for weak natural light.
The short answer
Pachyphytum is a full sun succulent in UC Extension lists. Indoors, Minnesota Extension suggests fluorescent tubes 6 to 12 inches above succulents for 14 to 16 hours a day. Leggy stems mean too little light. Pachyphytum rests in summer and grows mostly in autumn and spring.
How much light does pachyphytum need?
UC Extension puts Pachyphytum on its full sun list and notes some succulents take 4 to 6 hours of full sun a day. Minnesota Extension favors a bright, sunny window without hot midday sun. Day length basics are in grow light timers.
Which grow light suits pachyphytum?
| Light | Notes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Cool white fluorescent | Gives good results for succulents | Minnesota Extension |
| Daylight plus natural white tubes | Gives good results for succulents | Minnesota Extension |
| LED | Energy efficient, long lasting, little heat | Minnesota Extension lighting guide |
Minnesota Extension says to check packaging for blue, red or white balanced light. For a broader look at fixtures, see grow lights for cannabis.
How do you tell if pachyphytum has the right light?
Minnesota Extension says plants low on light grow leggy stems that reach toward the light, and may turn pale green or yellow. Hang lights close, at 6 to 12 inches for succulents per Minnesota. Distance matters with LEDs too, covered in led light distance cannabis.
How to: step by step
- Start in the brightest window you have.
- Add a fluorescent or LED grow light.
- Hang it 6 to 12 inches above the plant.
- Set a timer for 14 to 16 hours.
- Watch new growth for a few weeks.
- Adjust height or hours in small steps.
Troubleshooting
Stretched stems mean too little light, so lower the light or add hours. Pale leaves signal low light, which Minnesota Extension links to low chlorophyll. Shriveling in winter: dry roots. Minnesota Extension says to water just enough to stop shrinking.
UC Extension says summer dormant succulents rest from May through August and prefer little summer water. This group grows mainly in autumn and spring. The Kind Seed Co shop lists cannabis seeds for other indoor growers.
Sources
- Succulents (GN 175), UC Cooperative Extension Sacramento County
- Cacti and succulents, University of Minnesota Extension
- Lighting for indoor plants and starting seeds, University of Minnesota Extension
FAQ
Why is my pachyphytum stretching?
Minnesota Extension says plants short on light grow leggy stems that reach toward the light source. Add light or move the lamp closer.
How many hours should the light run?
Minnesota Extension suggests 14 to 16 hours a day for succulents under fluorescent tubes.
How close should the light be?
Minnesota Extension says to place lights 6 to 12 inches above succulents.
Does pachyphytum rest in summer?
Yes. UC Extension lists Pachyphytum among summer dormant, winter growing succulents that rest from May through August.
How should I water pachyphytum in winter?
Minnesota Extension says to water succulents in low light winter months only enough to prevent shrinking and withering.
