So, what do we need to consider to get excellent seedlings and, of course, a harvest:
- DO NOT additionally disinfect seeds if they were processed under factory conditions by the manufacturer, this may lead to their death.
- DO NOT plant seeds purchased from private individuals or prepared independently without first disinfecting them.
- DO NOT purchase seeds from questionable sources – there is a high risk of receiving a poor-quality product. When purchasing packaged seeds, pay special attention to the variety description, whether they have been treated, and the expiration date.
- When planting seeds, DO NOT use dense garden soil: not only is it too dense for seeds, it may also contain harmful bacteria. Use specialized soil that has been disinfected.
- DO NOT use any containers; they must be suitable in volume, wall thickness, and have drainage capabilities.
- When planting seeds, DO NOT plant them too deeply into the soil.
- DO NOT water the soil after sowing, as this will wash it away and carry the seeds deeper into the soil. Only mist the seedlings with a spray bottle.
- DO NOT sow seeds too close together. This will result in densely packed and underdeveloped shoots.
- DO NOT place the seedling container on a windowsill, as the air temperature there is not warm enough, and the soil is typically 10 degrees cooler than the outside air. The container should be placed in a warm spot.
- DO NOT allow the top layer of soil to dry out, as the seed sprouts will also dry out and will not germinate.
- DO NOT keep seedlings in the shade. They need adequate light. The best place for this is a south-facing windowsill. However, since daylight hours in spring are not yet long enough, it is recommended to provide seedlings with additional lighting, such as a grow light.
- DO NOT water the plantings with cold water; you must use settled water at a temperature of at least +22 degrees.
And finally, a few tips:
- The seedlings should be transplanted after two full leaves have appeared, after which they should be protected from exposure to sunlight.
- Over the course of two weeks, you need to harden off the seedlings, for example, by opening a window and gradually increasing the time of fresh air flow.
- When planning planting in the ground, remember that slightly wilted seedlings are less susceptible to damage, while recently watered, firm stems break easily. It's best to water the seedlings after moving them to their intended long-term location.
