Light Compensation Point

Light compensation point is the light level where a plant just breaks even.

At this point, the energy made through photosynthesis equals the energy the plant uses each day to stay alive. Below this level, the plant slowly runs an energy deficit. Above it, the plant can support growth.

A simple way to think about it is food intake. If you eat slightly less than your body needs, you lose weight by using stored energy. If you eat far less than your basic survival needs for too long, you starve. Plants work the same way. Below the light compensation point, they survive by burning stored energy. They cannot grow or survive forever there.

See Also