Should I prune the long stems?

You can prune back long stems to encourage bushier growth. Just make sure to cut just above a leaf node.

Will it recover if I move it to better light?

The existing stems will not shrink, but new growth will be much sturdier and more compact. You will see the difference within a few weeks.

Deadly nightshade: leggy growth, causes and fixes

Check these first

Assess the current light intensity at the plant's location.
Rotate the pot to ensure even growth.
Check your recent fertilization schedule.

Likely causes

Insufficient light
Most likely
How to tell: The stems will be long and thin with large gaps between the leaves. The plant will look like it is leaning heavily toward the nearest light source.
What to do: Move the plant to a spot with bright, indirect light or partial shade. If you are growing it indoors, consider placing it closer to a window or using a grow light.
Excessive nitrogen
Possible
How to tell: This is less common for this plant, but usually happens if you overfeed it with a high nitrogen fertilizer. The plant grows too fast, resulting in weak, stretched stems.
What to do: Stop fertilizing for 4 to 6 weeks to let the plant stabilize. When you resume, use a balanced fertilizer at half strength.

Leggy growth in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your deadly nightshade

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

When to worry

It is normal for the plant to stretch slightly as it grows taller, but it becomes a problem if the stems are too weak to support their own weight. If the plant is falling over, it needs more light.

Stopping it coming back

Provide consistent, bright light and rotate the pot every few weeks to keep the growth balanced.

Deadly nightshade: leggy growth? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your deadly nightshade and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.

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Questions people ask

Should I prune the long stems?: You can prune back long stems to encourage bushier growth. Just make sure to cut just above a leaf node.
Will it recover if I move it to better light?: The existing stems will not shrink, but new growth will be much sturdier and more compact. You will see the difference within a few weeks.

Why is my deadly nightshade growing so leggy?