small curled leaves on seedlings - Ask Extension
Hi there!
I've been working to propagate Lithospermum canescens (hoary puccoon) from seed. They have been growing for about a month under lights at a...
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small curled leaves on seedlings #856130
Asked December 06, 2023, 8:44 AM EST
Hi there!
I've been working to propagate Lithospermum canescens (hoary puccoon) from seed. They have been growing for about a month under lights at about 73 degrees soil temperature. I'm finding that most of them are producing small curled leaves. Only a few have nice healthy looking leaves. I am taking care to wait until the pots are somewhat light before watering. What might be causing this?
Thank you!
Otter Tail County Minnesota
Expert Response
Congratulations on growing seedlings, as this plant is difficult to reproduce. The cause of curling seedling leaves is usually lack of moisture, possibly caused by dry air or hot grow lights. Check those and monitor the soil moisture regularly. Good luck with growing and transplanting this native forb.
For more information, see https://www.chicagobotanic.org/blog/plant_science_conservation/why_pretty_spring_wildflower_so_difficult_grow
For more information, see https://www.chicagobotanic.org/blog/plant_science_conservation/why_pretty_spring_wildflower_so_difficult_grow