​🌟 What You’re Doing Right
​First off, give yourself some credit for monitoring phenotypic expression. The fact that you’ve noticed one plant is lagging or reacting differently than its siblings shows you have a keen eye for detail. Most growers just see "green," but you’re actually reading the plants. Keeping multiple plants in the same environment is the best way to stress-test your setup and learn the nuances of the craft.
​🔍 The Problem: Is it Genetics or Environment?
​While "bad genetics" is a convenient scapegoat, it’s rarely the only cause of a "cooked" look. Usually, what you’re seeing is a Genetic Sensitivity to environmental stressors. Think of it like siblings: one might tan perfectly in the sun, while the other gets a sunburn in ten minutes.
​Here is what is likely happening:
​Light/Heat Stress: If the leaves are crispy, canoeing (edges curling up), or bleaching, that specific plant likely has a lower tolerance for your light intensity or ambient temps.
​VPD Imbalance: If your Vapor Pressure Deficit is off, the plant can’t "breathe" (transpire) correctly, leading to a burnt, stunted appearance.
​Nutrient Sensitivity: This specific pheno might be a "light feeder." What the other two plants love might be causing a toxic salt buildup in the root zone for this one, leading to nutrient lockout.
​🛠️ How to Fix & Avoid It
​To get that plant back in the race and ensure your next run is flawless, follow this protocol:
​The "Shadow" Move: Physically move the struggling plant to the edge of the tent or further away from the "hot spot" of your light. A 10-15% reduction in PAR can work wonders for a sensitive strain. 💡
​The Flush & Reset: If you suspect nutrient burn, flush the medium with pH-balanced water to reset the EC (Electrical Conductivity) levels. Re-introduce nutrients at 25%💧
​Check Your Roots: Ensure that the "cooked" plant isn't sitting in a cold draft or a soggy pot. Root health dictates leaf health.