I've always heard that leggy seedlings are mostly an indoor issue, but can it happen outdoors too? I want to know if lack of light can cause leggy growth in outdoor plants, or if it's just something you usually see under grow lights.
3 Answers
Typically, leggy seedlings are more of an indoor concern. When you grow indoors, cheap grow lights usually provide much less light—about 2,000 lux—while direct sunlight can reach 100,000 lux! So, if you're growing outdoors and your plants are in good sun exposure, they should be fine.
You're right that leggy seedlings happen from a lack of light, but it is possible to see them outdoors if the plants are in deep shade or competing for sunlight. Generally, though, it’s pretty uncommon for outdoor plants to get leggy since they usually get enough light. The wind outdoors also helps strengthen their stems.
Yeah, it’s mostly an indoor problem! I know from experience that outdoor seedlings get enough natural light unless they're in a really shady area. If you start them too close together, that can lead to leggy growth as they compete, but they usually handle it fine overall.
Totally agree! Once they're outside, they usually thrive unless something's really off.
That makes sense! I've noticed my seedlings grow much better outside, especially with the breeze.