The Sign

Stretched stems, widely spaced leaves, and faded colour are etiolation -- the plant reaching for light it is not getting.

The Fix

Move it to a brighter spot (south or west window) or add a grow light. New growth will be compact and colourful; the stretched part will not undo itself, so you can behead and re-root the top.

Preventing It

  • Match the plant to the brightest window you have.
  • Rotate weekly so all sides reach the light.
  • Use the light calculator to place sun-lovers correctly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will the stretched part recover?

A:

No; trim and re-root the healthy top.

Q: Can too much sun be bad?

A:

Yes -- a sudden move to hot sun scorches. Acclimate gradually.

Q: Are pale leaves always light?

A:

Usually, but over-fertilising can also wash out colour.

Stretching is a cry for sun, not water. Give it light and your succulent tightens right up.