Jessica Carlson 

OTC Master Gardener

If you have ever tried starting seeds indoors in winter and wondered why they look tall, pale, or a little floppy, you are not alone. The good news is that this is not a gardening failure. It is simply a light problem, and it is one of the easiest things to fix. With a simple lighting setup, anyone can grow strong, healthy plants indoors, even in the darkest months of the year.

It is important to choose plants that will grow in the existing light conditions indoors. Plants love light, and in winter there just is not much of it to go around. Short days, low sun, and cloudy skies make it tough for our plants to get what they need from a window alone. When light is limited, plants stretch toward it, which leads to thin stems and weak growth. Adding artificial light gives plants the boost they need and takes a lot of the guesswork out of indoor growing.

You do not need fancy equipment to get started. Many gardeners successfully use light emitting diode (LED) or fluorescent fixtures that are easy to find and inexpensive to run. These lights provide the kind of light plants can use, without producing much heat. A basic shop light works just fine for seed starting when placed close to the plants.

Light placement is one of the most important parts of success. Once seeds sprout, lights should be kept just a few inches above the seedlings and raised as the plants grow. This helps keep stems short and sturdy. Most seedlings are happiest with about twelve to eighteen hours of light each day. Using a timer makes this effortless and keeps plants on a steady routine.

The type of light matters too, but it does not have to be complicated. Plants grow well under balanced white lights that include the blue and red wavelengths they need for healthy leaves and roots. Many lights sold for home use already provide this mix, making it easy for beginners to get good results without overthinking it.

Artificial lighting is also a great help for houseplants during winter. If your plants lean toward the window or seem to slow down once days get shorter, a little extra light can make a noticeable difference. Supplemental light can help plants stay fuller, greener, and happier until spring returns.

One thing to skip is regular household light bulbs. They give off more heat than useful light and are not designed for plant growth. Modern lighting options are safer, more efficient, and much better suited for indoor gardening.

Starting seeds and caring for plants indoors does not have to be intimidating. With a small setup and a bit of light, you can grow sturdy seedlings and enjoy healthier houseplants.  Gardening is meant to be fun, and a little extra light can help make it that way all year long.

For more information on supplemental lighting visit https://extension.umn.edu/planting-and-growing-guides/lighting-indoor-plants