Why your succulents stretch out

Most succulents are full sun plants and need a lot of light. Without enough, they stretch out, growing tall with gaps between the leaves.  This is called etiolation. It won't kill your plant, but it's easy to prevent once you know the signs to watch for.

One of the first signs is your succulent leaning toward the window. Rotating it helps the look, but it doesn't fix the lighting.

Reaching for light

A lot of succulents get their color from light and stress. Without enough light, many fade and revert back to a plain light green.

Color fades

Without enough light the stem grows taller between the leaves. You get gaps, a weaker stem, and a plant that's more prone to rot.

Weaker growth

The real fix is more light. Indoors that usually means a grow light, since most windows don't let in enough to keep succulents compact.

More light

A stretched succulent won't shrink back. Cut the top off, let it callous over, then replant it. The base will push out new offshoots too.

Give it a haircut

Catch it early and your succulents stay compact and colorful. Tap below for the full guide to saving a stretched plant.