Question

How do I keep my succulents from growing taller under my plant light? I have them under blue light at the second highest lighting (there are nine settings for the amount of light) and its on them for nine hours a day.

Answer 1

If you want to prevent your succulents from growing taller under your plant light, you can take a few steps to help control their growth:

1. Adjust the light intensity: Since succulents typically prefer bright light, you can consider reducing the light intensity by adjusting the setting to a lower level. By providing slightly less light, you may help limit the vertical growth of your succulents.

2. Change the light duration: In addition to adjusting the light intensity, you can also decrease the duration of light exposure. Nine hours of continuous light might be excessive for succulents and could encourage elongated growth. Try reducing the lighting period to around six to eight hours per day.

3. Opt for a broader light spectrum: Blue light promotes upward growth in plants. To discourage excessive vertical growth, consider using a full spectrum or broad spectrum grow light. These lights provide a balanced combination of blue, red, and other wavelengths, which can help promote more compact growth in succulents.

4. Adjust the light distance: Make sure the light source is positioned at an appropriate distance from your succulents. If the light is too close, it can cause stretching as the plants reach for the light. Aim for a distance of around 6-12 inches between the light and the succulents, but monitor the plants closely for any signs of stress.

5. Maintain proper watering and nutrition: Overwatering and excessive fertilization can also contribute to elongated growth in succulents. Ensure that you are providing the right amount of water, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Additionally, use a balanced fertilizer specifically formulated for succulents and follow the recommended dosage.

Remember that succulents naturally tend to stretch or elongate if they don't receive enough light. If you've been growing them in low light conditions previously, they might exhibit elongated growth as they adjust to the increased light intensity. In such cases, you can propagate the healthy parts of the plants and start anew under appropriate lighting conditions.

By implementing these measures, you can help encourage more compact and healthy growth in your succulents under your plant light.