Leggy Seedlings

[susieq100]

I know I have been 'properly' gardening for 5-6 years now, but my seedlings still get really leggy. They are in an unheated bedroom - everywhere else is a bit chilly for them this time of year. What can I do to 'slow them down' a bit? I tend to pot them on and plant them deep, but would welcome other advice.

[RaptorUK]

They need more light, is your window cill South facing ?

[WendyC]

They get leggy because they are searching for light. You are right to keep them growing in cooler conditions but increasing light is tricky. Some people invest in grow lights. Other things to try are putting white card or foil behind the seedlings to reflect light. The hardest one is to wait until natural light conditions increase before sowing!

[susieq100]

OK - so south facing windowsill? The bedroom they are in is N facing. they could go in the conservatory - very light but also chilly. We use it as a walk in fridge in the winter !

[dod]

how about in a heated propagator (without the lid, or just some fleece) in the conservatory?

[Thelma Sanders]

I find tin foil, folded up the back of the trays, works a treat

[binley100]

My seedlings when germinated go in a south facing but unheated conservatory ...I cover them with lids but partially open to let in air , or fleece ..

[Two_Sheds]

my seedlings still get really leggy. ... What can I do to 'slow them down' a bit?

You need to wait until days are longer and the sun is stronger: mid March onwards