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Lodi, California

Hi

Not long ago, I made a post asking how to keep transplants from becoming "leggy". Just a thought, would too much moisture in the potting soil also cause "legginess"? Thanks!

4/5/2014 11:21:31 AM

Oregon

I think you have to keep the light close to the plant. never heard of moisture being the cause

4/5/2014 3:01:06 PM

Wixom MI.

Watering will not cause that ! Insuficient is what causes that. Floresent lights are only good for the first 6 inches at most. Even windows will make them stretch and become leggy too but better than floresent light. The best way is a cold frame outside but be sure you have something to keep them warm at night so they don't freeze on cold nights.

4/6/2014 12:41:31 PM

Rhode Island

ashton----see response from ggvdbii. keep light about 1/2 to 1 inch above the plants leafs.put outside (with night protection) asap after first true leaf is visible.
the longer you wait the more need to harden off the seedling a few nights in the garage before setting out.
pap
pap

4/7/2014 9:21:40 AM

Hinckley MN

light and air movement is the key to stocky plants. cover your cold frame with plastic or floating row cover. if your frame is 3/4 pvc, then get some 1 inch PE pipe to make fabric clips. Cut the PE water pipe in 6 inch lengths, then cut each piece lengthways so it makes a clip to hold your plastic on the frame. I would say 40 clips should cover a frame and leave the top ventable

4/7/2014 1:59:41 PM

Salem, Oregon

PG I have used a row of T8 flourescent lights above my seed starts. Have never had a leggy seedling. Just for referance Lowe's #432518 Utilitech 48-in Fluorescent Shop Light

4/16/2014 3:28:57 PM

Webster, NY

As weather permits, as soon as my plants start to break through the soil, I place them outside and bring them in at night. As pap says, I then plant when I see the first true leaf come out, with protection. Heat cables in the ground and a small heater with a thermostat in the hoop house.

4/17/2014 6:07:00 AM