Stretching (leggy growth)

Tall, thin stems with long gaps between nodes. Usually not enough light or too much heat; some stretch in early flower is normal.

Symptoms

• Long gaps between nodes; thin, weak stems.
• Seedlings tall, pale and floppy.
• Plant leaning towards the light.
• Loose, fluffy flowers in prolonged heat.

Quick checks

• Check light distance against the maker's guide.
• Check daytime temperature.
• Which week are you in?

How to fix it

1. 1
   Environment

   Get the light right

   Lower or brighten the light within the maker's guide, keeping the back-of-hand test comfortable.

2. 2
   Environment

   Cool it down

   Get daytime temperatures back under 28 °C.

3. 3
   Physical

   Support weak stems

   Use canes or ties, and give plants space.

4. 4
   Support

   Tighten the canopy

   Monkey say Stress helps reduce internodal spacing in vegetative growth for a fuller canopy.

Likely causes

• Light too far away or too weak for the stage.
• Temperatures above 28 °C.
• Overcrowding and shading.
• The natural stretch after switching to 12/12.

What to avoid

• Don't push the light so close that tops bleach.
• Don't panic about some stretch in the first weeks of flower.

Prevention

• Right light distance from day one.
• Temperature in range.

Monkey products that can help

Stress

Monkey say silicon helps reduce internodal spacing through vegetative growth, for fuller, thicker canopies. Can help, alongside correct light.

2 ml per 10 L every week. Always add it to the water first and mix thoroughly before adding anything else.

View product →

Products support a healthy plant. They don't replace fixing the cause.

When to get help

If seedlings keep stretching at the recommended light distance, email info@monkeynutrients.co.uk with your light and set-up.

Related problems