Question
Hi Tom,
I recently planted some hibiscus from seeds that I purchased.  They were poking thru in about 7 days and then grew to about 3/4 of an inch tall.   They are still at the 2 leaf stage but the leaves are curling and the stems seem weak.  They are under growlights in about 75-80 degrees, now uncovered. I am misting every day so keep the potting medium damp, I treated with no damp when I planted and again about 10 days later.  Germination rate was good, but things seem to be going sideways...   can you advise.

Thanks,

"a northern gardener"

Answer
Hi Lori,
Thanx for your question.  I usually don't start my hibiscus or hibiscus relative seeds like okra until maybe a few weeks before the last frost.  The seedlings have a high light requirement and tend to get leggy although they will be okay.  One thing you can do to slow down the growth rate is to keep the seedlings in a cooler place.  I'd say around 65F would do fine (18C).  This will help slow them down a bit and they won't get so leggy.  When you go to plant the seedlings outdoors make sure you give them a period of about 10 days in a sheltered place where they will not get direct sunlight or get beaten up by wind, rain, hail, etc.  Make sure all danger of frost has passed.  You can make a hole deep enough to accommodate a lot of the stem and this way the seedling won't droop or lay over.  You can do this with leggy tomato seedlings too and it works great.  I hope this helps.
Tom