Keeping seedlings healthy, regardless of type, depends on respecting some basic basic rules. This article explains what you need to consider to keep your seedlings in the best condition.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Maintain Healthy Seedlings
Step 1. Decide if the plant will develop better if it is first grown as a seedling:
most plants benefit from a stage as seedlings which gives them the opportunity to grow in optimal conditions.
Step 2. Select seeds in optimum condition for your seedlings
If you are growing seedlings from seeds, make sure they are fresh and healthy - this ensures an excellent start to life.
Step 3. Use a new blend each time to grow the seeds
Do not reuse the same mixture: the risk is to transfer plant diseases that could decimate your seedlings.
Step 4. Clean everything that will be used for growing seedlings
This means:
- Wash and sterilize all vases, flowerpots, trays, etc. which will be used unless they are new biodegradable trays (these can be found in nurseries at really low prices)
- Wash the benches on which you will take care of the plants
- Wash your hands!
Method 2 of 3: Prepare to Plant
Step 1. Follow the instructions for your plant type
If the plant in question has particular characteristics or special needs, be sure to take them into consideration.
Step 2. Prepare the seed container
- Fill the seed container to the top and level it (a float can be used to achieve this).
- Spread the large seeds directly on the surface.
- Sift a thin layer of potting mix onto the leveled surface and then add the small seeds.
- Sow evenly to give the right space for the seedlings that will grow.
- Except for seeds that need to stay on the surface (the ones that need light to germinate), cover the seeds with an even layer of mixture to make them grow. A green thumb rule is to cover with a thick layer up to twice the length of the seed.
Method 3 of 3: Water and Heat
Step 1. Water regularly
Keep the soil evenly moist and avoid watering too much or too little, both actions are fatal for the seedlings. When watering, use a gentle spray or a rosette watering can to avoid disturbing the soil and sensitive seedlings.
Step 2. Keep the seedlings warm
Don't let them get cold or too hot: an ideal temperature is between 18ºC and 25ºC. Put them in a warm but not completely sunny place, bring them inside at night if they risk a cold or frost. When the seedlings become stronger and grown, a porch or veranda can be an ideal place to grow them before planting them in the garden: these structures are in fact covered but still allow a gradual acclimatization with the outside temperatures.
Step 3. Space out the seedlings, overcrowding is harmful
Remove them after the first leaf has grown (not the stem) and place them on a tray that will allow them to be more spaced. Seedlings that have been spaced out need to be reinforced if you are putting them into new growing conditions.
Step 4. Plant at the right time:
avoid planting seedlings in the garden too early or too late, in both cases healthy growth will be blocked. Follow the instructions for the plant species you are painting.
Advice
- The mixture for growing the seeds should be well ventilated, free of parasites and diseases and able to retain moisture without becoming saturated with water.
- If you plant seeds directly in the garden, make sure the soil has been completely turned over prepared, so that diseases, pests, etc. have been removed.
- Some plants, such as lawn grass, pumpkins, green crops, grow better if the seeds are planted directly in the ground.
