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Produce => Under Glass => Topic started by: Shoyu on March 17, 2005, 23:09:39

Title: Seedlings
Post by: Shoyu on March 17, 2005, 23:09:39

Sorry folks, this is probably a REALLY basic question!

I have some seeds growing on my windowsills at the mo. Some are yet to germinate, others like the tomatoes and sweatpeas are making a bid for world domination! A couple of trays (lavender and petunia) started really well, and while they are still alive, they are not looking as bright and vigorous as they were a day or two ago. I'm misting them with water twice a day and turning them daily too. Am I worrying about nothing, will they perk up when they get their "proper" leaves? Or have I done something wrong.

I have grown from seed before, but I've obviously picked more robust beasties before. Any suggestions/advice gratefully received.

Title: Re: Seedlings
Post by: wardy on March 17, 2005, 23:12:09

Are you watering and misting or just misting?  I generally water seedlings from the bottom and take them out of the water when the surface of the compost is wet and then let them drain  :)

Title: Re: Seedlings
Post by: Shoyu on March 17, 2005, 23:14:53

Hmm, just misting so far. I was worried about overwatering. The trays feel reasonably heavy so there is some moisture there, but maybe not enough?

Title: Re: Seedlings
Post by: chrispea27 on March 18, 2005, 07:11:54

Are they in v good light?
Which direction do they face ?
They may be short of light.

Title: Re: Seedlings
Post by: teresa on March 18, 2005, 08:55:34

Petunias and lavender do not need misting just watering from the bottom when needed. How about putting them outside if warm in a safe spot no wind or pets and bring them in at night giving them all round daylight.

 

Title: Re: Seedlings
Post by: Mrs Ava on March 18, 2005, 22:04:54

I am certain over watering kills more seedlings and plants than lack of watering!  I am with Teresa, don't bother misting, just sit them in a tray of water until the top of the compost is damp, then remove and let them get quite dry before repeating the process.

Title: Re: Seedlings
Post by: Marianne on March 18, 2005, 22:51:04

Thanks for that advice Wardy.  I too have the same problem.

Title: Re: Seedlings
Post by: Shoyu on March 19, 2005, 00:22:59

They have plenty of light. The greenhouse is going up soon but they are on south facing windowsills. I turn them everyday.

On a happy note, the watering from the bottom seems to be working! All seedlings are looking bouncy and happy again (some of them spent the night in the bath!). I have taken them out now they are wet and will do as you say about letting them get quite dry.

SO glad I found this site! Thanks folks.

Title: Re: Seedlings
Post by: Marianne on March 19, 2005, 07:16:49

Shoyu,  I absolutely love your avatar !!  Is it a mouse or a weasel ??
 :D

Title: Re: Seedlings
Post by: Shoyu on March 19, 2005, 09:07:11

lol, it says weasel at the top in tiny letters but you probably can't make it out. I stumbled across it in a magazine and loved the cheeky little face!

Title: Re: Seedlings
Post by: wardy on March 19, 2005, 13:35:31

Don't let your compost dry out!  If it gets too dry you can't re-wet it if you know what I mean  :)

Title: Re: Seedlings
Post by: Marianne on March 19, 2005, 19:07:43

No, I had not seen it as it is so very small !! What a lovely little fellow!

 :D