Marianne's Response

connie189’s Question

I am trying to grow specific cold weather spinach and lettuce; I live in WI in an apartment with a balcony. I started the seeds in our fridge; tiny plants are now in planters and under grow lights. I am new to WI and wasn’t sure how much sun would come in over summer into fall. Our apartment faces north. The seeds require full to partial sun. I don’t see as much sun now on the balcony as in summer. Should I keep the plants inside and add another grow light? (I have another light with two bulbs that I can use). Thank you. smile

Posted by connie189 on September 22, 2016

Marianne's Response

Yes, keep the young seedlings under a grow light as the cooler weather this fall and lack of sun on your balcony will stunt the growth of these plants. I am impressed at your resolve to grow your own leafy greens and lettuce and spinach can be grown indoors but it is not easy. You may want to try bean sprouts, mint or some other herbs if your grow lights can not induce enough growth in the greens. A north facing balcony usually does not have enough light for growing food crops but you have chosen the leafy greens that need the least amount of sun. Keep growing, Marianne Binetti

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