Leggy growth
Long, thin, pale stems with widely spaced leaves, caused when a plant stretches toward light because it is not getting enough.
Also known as: Etiolation, Stretching
Symptoms and identification
Stems are long, weak and floppy with big gaps between leaves, and new leaves are small and pale. Plants lean toward the window and flower poorly. Succulents stretch upward and lose their tight rosette shape.
Causes
Not enough light is the main cause, sometimes along with too much warmth, crowding or too much nitrogen. Seedlings on a dim windowsill and houseplants in a dark room are the classic cases.
Organic treatment
Move plants to brighter light gradually, to avoid sunburn. Pinch back or prune leggy stems to encourage bushy new growth, and root the cuttings. Stems that have stretched do not shorten again.
Prevention
Give plants the light they need, such as a bright window, grow lights on a timer for seedlings or a move outdoors, turn pots regularly, and space plants so they do not shade each other.
Chemical treatment (use with care)
No chemical treatment is needed. Growth-retardant products exist for commercial growers but are not suitable for home gardens.