They are likely taller because of the lowered light.

Most plants cell structures change due to amount of light. In lower light the cells elongate which allows the chlorophyll containing organelles to have more surface area to absrb what light they do receive.

You can find out more about this physiological process by looking up the term "etoliation".

Most plants do grow more compact in higher light so you are really seeing a normal and expected result.

Thanks, hortist. I think you might have miss read. Both locations are getting close to the same amount of light.

the south side doesn't get any morning sun until around 11am and then they get it the rest of the day. the north side gets morning sun until 10am, then are in shade until around 1pm and then are in sun the rest of the day.

its just not the height of the plants. But the south side plants look like I've just transplanted them. But the north side are bushier as well. More leaves, thicker stems and more branches. Both locations were planted at the same time. I'll see if I can take some pics and post them when i get home tonight.

Bill S.

Its also the quality of the direct light they receive.

Morning and evening light is not as intense because it has to pass through more atmosphere (which filters it).

You could also see slower growth because of warmer soil in pots than in ground (S is in ground an N is in pots?).

Often in lower light plant parts will be larger for the same reason I stated above - increasing surface area to get more light.

I'd wager that when fruits begin to set, you'll find much more productive plants will be on the south side as well.

I think there are also other factors too. The fact that they are in containers or in the ground, & the variety. How close to the buildings, how much wind they get, etc.....
Height many times has nothing to do with health.
I think moulman is right. By harvest time, the ones on the south will be the winnenrs.
Tom

Finally got home and took some pictures. See what you think and tell me I'm worried about nothing.

Bill S

Here is a link that might be useful: tomatoes

Lets see if I can get a picture to post.

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