Question From: J. Spalding - Roanoke, Texas, United States
Q: I have planted indoors French Marigold Chica Yellow flowers from seeds . They have sprouted and are now about 4 to 5 weeks old. They are approx. 1 1/4" to 2 inches tall. I have used mostly indoor growing lights for approx. 10 to 14 hours a day. I have tried to keep the soil fairly moist by watering lightly daily or nearly every other day. My problem is some of leaves are turning brown. My thought is maybe the lights are too near the plants causing the leaves to become too hot and burn, or maybe I am using the lights too many hours per day. Could it be that I am watering too little or too much ? Could it be bugs or a disease? Thanks- Jim
A: Jim, If you are using T5 shop lights they should be kept 5 to 6 inches from the tops of the plants. I run mine 16 hours a day. Your plants will wilt if they lack water. The soil should be kept moist, but not sodden. Fertilizer burn will cause browning of the leaves. Take photos of your seedlings to a hyrdro store or nursery that grows seedlings for a more accurate ID. Also include type of potting soil, fertilizer, light setup etc. Best And Happy Yardening, Nancy
