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Light Stress or Burn

Light Stress or Burn

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When cannabis plants are exposed to excessive light, they can experience light burn or light stress. This occurs when the plants receive more light than they can handle, leading to various symptoms such as yellowing leaves, burnt tips, and upward leaf curling. Light burn is often observed on the top leaves closest to the grow lights, while older leaves can also be affected if exposed for a prolonged period. The condition can be mistaken for a nitrogen deficiency, but light-burned leaves are harder to pluck off compared to nitrogen-deficient ones.

Cause of Issue
◉ Proximity of grow lights, when placed too close to the plants, causes light burn. ◉ High-power LEDs or HPS grow lights with intense brightness can contribute to the condition. ◉ Heat or nutrient problems can worsen the symptoms of light burn.
Symptoms
◉ Yellowing leaves at the top of the plant directly under the grow lights ◉ Leaves pointing upward or "praying" ◉ Pale leaves closest to the light source ◉ Yellowing or reddening of leaves, especially near the light ◉ Crispy or brittle leaves, which can break easily ◉ Droopy colas, particularly in plants with intense light exposure ◉ Light burn often mistaken for a nitrogen deficiency
Corrective Actions
◉ Reduce the power of grow lights or increase the distance between the lights and plants. ◉ Bend the plants over or trim the tops to decrease their proximity to the light source. ◉ Gradually acclimate plants to higher light levels if moving from a shaded environment to direct sunlight. ◉ Pay attention to heat stress, as it can resemble light stress. Maintain a comfortable temperature range for optimal plant growth. ◉ When making changes to the plant's environment, do so gradually to minimize stress. ◉ Remember, these recommendations can help mitigate the effects of light burn, but each situation may require individual adjustments based on the specific grow setup and plant requirements.
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