30 Sep 2024

How do I know if my Plants are Getting Enough Sunlight?

Sunlight is a crucial factor in plant health, but how do you know if your plants are getting the right amount? Whether you’re dealing with wilting leaves or sun-scorched edges, understanding your plant’s light needs can make all the difference. Here’s how to spot the signs and adjust accordingly:

Signs of Too Little Sunlight:

  • Slow growth or no new growth at all.
  • Leggy plants, where stems stretch out and grow long between leaves as they try to reach for more light.
  • Pale or yellowing leaves, particularly at the bottom of the plant.
  • Plants that lean dramatically toward the light source.
  • Sparse foliage, with leaves appearing more spaced out than usual.

Solution: Move the plant to a brighter location or if indoors, closer to a window or natural light source.

Signs of Too Much Sunlight:

  • Scorched or burned leaves, which appear brown or have dry, crispy patches.
  • Leaves may wilt or turn brown at the edges, even though the soil is adequately moist.
  • Leaf drop, where plants shed their leaves to protect themselves from excess sun exposure.
  • Faded or washed-out colours in the foliage.

Solution: Move your plant to an area with more shade.  If the plant is indoors, filter the light with a sheer curtain. If it’s an outdoor plant, consider planting it in a spot where it gets morning sun but is shaded during the harsh afternoon hours.

Just the Right Amount of Sunlight:

  • Healthy, vibrant leaves with rich green colour (or the natural colour of the plant).
  • Steady growth, with new leaves or flowers appearing regularly.
  • The plant is upright and full, with no signs of leaning or stretching.

General Tips:

    • Full sun plants (like succulents, vegetables, herbs, etc) typically need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight a day.
    • Partial sun or partial shade plants prefer 3-6 hours of sunlight, usually in the morning or late afternoon.
    • Shade-loving plants (like ferns or certain houseplants) can thrive with indirect or filtered light.

By paying attention to your plants’ appearance and adjusting their light exposure accordingly, you’ll ensure they get just what they need to thrive!

DISCLAIMER:  The information presented on this website is intended solely as a general guide. We neither endorse specific plant varieties over others nor claim expertise in stock performance. All information is believed to be accurate, based on private inquiries and experiences, and is provided in good faith. Blackwood’s, including its employees, disclaims any responsibility for harm, loss, cost, or damage arising from the use or reliance upon any information on this website, especially if any part of the information proves to be inaccurate or incomplete. Please note that the displayed photos are not representative of current stock but are used for illustrative purposes only.