Etiolation
A process in plants grown in partial or complete absence of light, characterized by long, weak stems and pale leaves due to lack of chlorophyll.
Также говорят: blanching, plant blanching
Etiolation occurs when plants undergo rapid stem elongation in search of light sources. During this phase, the plant lacks chlorophyll, resulting in a yellow or whitish appearance, while the leaves remain underdeveloped compared to the stem length.
In agricultural practice, etiolation is intentionally used to produce tender crops like white asparagus or endives. By excluding light through mounding or covering, growers prevent the formation of chlorophyll and fibrous tissues, which results in a milder, more delicate flavor profile.
However, unintended etiolation is a major problem for seedling production. Growers often fail to provide enough light, leading to leggy, fragile plants that lack structural integrity. To prevent this, it is essential to manage seedling density and ensure supplemental lighting during low-light seasons.