1 of 15

Write now Article Tools

Page 2 of 3

germinate. The ideal temperature would be between 75 and 90 degrees. You can find warm spots near your stove or on top of your fridge, heating vents, and under fluorescent lights. You can also use heat mats underneath to keep them at an even, warm temperature. They are easy to use and inexpensive. While the seeds are germinating, do not put them on window sills. The temperatures tend to vary during the day and get too cool at night.

After your seeds have germinated, reduce the temperature. Most seedlings do well between 65 and 75 degrees. This slows down the growth, making your plants hardier. They develop a stockier build. If you keep the seedlings too warm for too long, they can grow weak and spindly, and will not do well in the garden.

WATERING

It is important to keep the soil moist, but don't soak it or the seeds may not germinate. When using tap water, let it set out 24 hours to let the chlorine evaporate. Chlorine is toxic to plants. Keep the water at room temperature. Too hot or too cold and interrupt the germination process. A good way to water your seeds is to use a spray bottle and mist the surface. You can also use a watering can with a fine spray.

After your seedlings have sprouted and are about 2-3 inches tall, don't water them quite as much. This helps to discourage root rot from forming. Try to let the top 1/2 inch dry out between waterings.

LIGHTING

Seeds don't need light. As long as your seeds are warm, moist and have a place to grow, they are happy. Seedlings, on the other hand, need 12-14 hours of direct sunlight. It is better, in my opinion, to have too much than not enough. I've found that it is hard to get that much light through any window in my house. If you have that luxury, I say go for it! Just be sure to rotate the tray every couple of days so the plants don't lean to one side. Fluorescent lights are a good alternative if you don't have this much natural light. They work well and give a consistent amount of light that you control. The light is placed directly overhead, usually hung by chains about 6 inches above the plants.

FEEDING

Each seed has a built-supply of food that it needs to germinate. It is not until the seeds germinate that you should feed them. A weak mixture of fertilizer half of what a normal dose is should be gently applied shortly after the seeds germinate.

THINNING

A lot of first-time gardeners get stumped on thinning out seedlings. It's really not difficult, but it takes a little patience and a gentle hand. You should begin

• << previous page
• 1
• 2
• 3
• next page >>

Add your voice

Know something about Starting seeds?
We want to hear your view. Write now!