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Why do the stems of my flowers lie down when they begin to bloom?

Last Updated: May 14, 2008

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When stems of flowers lie down as they bloom, it is called lodging and can result from a number of factors. Overwatering, excess nitrogen fertilizer, poor soil preparation, and inadequate sunlight are the most common causes. If the roots can develop properly through proper soil preparation, if the plant is not too succulent (excess nitrogen), or if the plant is not overwatered (affects root growth and succulence), your plants should stand up and not lodge. To increase the available sunlight you must either move the plant or remove the thing causing the shade. Having said all this, some cultivars tend to lodge more than others so check with your local nursery for ideas on which cultivars aren't apt to lodge.

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