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Why Your Seedlings Grow Tall and Weak—and How to Fix Them

Winter’s dim light leaves seedlings stretching for survival. Discover how a few tweaks to lighting and care can transform floppy plants into thriving stars.

In this image we can see tomatoes to the plant.
In this image we can see tomatoes to the plant.

Why Your Seedlings Grow Tall and Weak—and How to Fix Them

Many gardeners face a familiar frustration when seedlings grow tall, thin, and eventually topple over. This issue often appears in winter, when shorter daylight hours and indoor conditions weaken young plants. A few simple adjustments, however, can restore their health within days. The most common cause of leggy seedlings is insufficient light. In winter, natural daylight drops sharply, leaving plants stretching toward weak light sources. To counter this, gardeners should provide supplemental lighting for 14 to 16 hours daily. Leggy seedlings can be saved with straightforward changes to light, water, and temperature. These fixes not only prevent collapse but also promote stronger growth. The same principles apply to a wide range of plants, ensuring better results even in challenging winter conditions.

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