Seed Starting Success

I’ve been hearing rumors of people starting seeds already and thought I’d share a few tips.

1. Only use lightweight seed starting medium
2. If using trays, sow in rows as this helps prevent damping off
3. Most seeds like a moist, warm environment (70 ^o-75^o soil temperature). Tenting with clear plastic works well as long as it’s removed as soon as the seeds sprout
4. After germination, place seedlings in a cooler, dryer environment with lots of light. This is critical to prevent tall, spindly plants. Also learn your varieties. Example- Tomatoes would enjoy 55 ^o during this period while peppers like 65 ^o
5. Continue to harden your plants until it’s time for the garden

Lastly, resist the urge to sow seeds too early. It is fruitless to have beautiful tomato starts in late April if you can’t plant outdoors until late May

Bill Cerny