True leaves
/truː liːvz/
Definition
True leaves are the first leaves a seedling produces after the seed leaves, called cotyledons. They are a plant structure and usually look more like the mature foliage of that species, with their typical shape, texture, or edge pattern. In gardening, their appearance shows that the seedling has moved beyond its earliest stage and is starting regular photosynthesis and growth through its normal leaf form.
Function in Plants
- Photosynthesis begins in earnest: After true leaves expand, seedlings usually produce far more energy through photosynthesis than they could at emergence, which supports faster root growth, stem extension, and continued leaf production.
- A key stage for transplanting: Many growers wait until true leaves are present before pricking out or transplanting seedlings, because this stage shows the plant has started active growth and is often better able to handle disturbance.
- Useful for seedling identification: Their shape, edges, and surface texture often resemble the mature plant more closely than the first seed leaves do, so they help with identifying species and spotting look-alike weeds in trays or beds.
- Early signs of nutrition and stress: Color changes, distortion, or slow development on true leaves can reveal problems such as low light, watering issues, or nutrient imbalance earlier in the plant's life cycle.
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