Coleus Seedling Light Distance and Humidity Dome Removal

Peter's coleus seedlings (10–14 days, 2 leaves) under 3-tier fluorescent lights at 14 inches.

Immediate Adjustments

• Lower lights to 8–10 inches above seedlings.
• Remove humidity dome now (most germinated)—air circulation prevents damping off.
• Keep soil moist, not soggy.
• Use damp-off treatment a few more days during transition.
• Transplant at second true leaves.

Light Measurement Reality

Commercial light meters exist but are expensive. Instead, watch plant response:

• Leggy/stretching = light too far/weak.
• Compact, sturdy = good.
• Coleus tolerates less light than tomatoes/peppers/okra.

Trial and error beats meters. Adjust height by plant behavior.