TOP 9 important rules for growing seedlings from an experienced gardener

Seed selection

Many gardeners are trying to save money on buying seeds. But I was convinced from personal experience that this is not worth doing. I purchase seeds from different manufacturers and in different retail outlets, I am definitely interested in having a license. Seed packages must indicate the expiration date, batch number and quantity or weight of seeds. The bags must be intact, without streaks or damage. Growing seedlings is an important process and it needs special attention.

Growing seedlings. Correct soil

Planting seeds in barren, unfertilized soil is also fraught with consequences. In soil where nutrients are lacking, horticultural crops do not do well. Most often, they slow down growth or stop growing altogether. They bring a very meager harvest, or they just simply die. And for planting and growing seedlings, it is generally worth paying close attention to the soil. Usually, I select the composition of the soil for each crop individually, based on its characteristics. I buy soil in special stores or on my site. It is worth noting that I fertilize the soil from my site with special fertilizers, most often organic.

Preparing for landing

Preparation for planting seeds is one of the important stages, but for some reason they forget about it. But in vain! For each plant, preparation for planting is different, which is good for melons, it can be great harm to nightshades. I always refer to preparation as such processes as treatment from pests and fungi, hardening and soaking or germination of seeds. It is equally important to plant the seeds in the correct container. During active growth, seedlings strengthen their root system, so there should be plenty of room for growth. Otherwise, you risk getting sick and weak seedlings. Also, special attention should be paid to watering "kids". Watering should be regular and abundant, but in no case should water accumulate. Otherwise, the seedlings will start to rot.

Growing seedlings and planting dates

Planting dates are usually detailed on the seed bag. They must be strictly observed, deviation from the rules can lead to poor seed germination. And the seedlings will be weak and not fruiting. Seedlings planted not during seedlings take root extremely poorly in the open field.

Growth conditions

Seeds, as I have already noted, must be planted at a great distance from each other in order to enable the development of the root system. And pots and cups are ideal for planting seedlings, each seed has its own glass. But not everyone has such an opportunity. When landing in common boxes, you need to follow some tricky rules. The distance between each seed should be at least two centimeters. And the depth should be at least one centimeter. But do not forget that the seeds of some horticultural crops can simply be lightly sprinkled with earth on top. The most important thing when planting seedlings is adherence to growing standards. I strongly recommend that you keep a good eye on lighting, air temperature, and watering. If the upper layers of the soil dry up, then the seeds will not germinate, and those that still sprout will die. In order to prevent this from happening, I always cover my seedlings with a film or non-woven material. This allows you to maintain the moisture required for seedlings. With insufficient and dim lighting, the seedlings grow sick and very weak.I always use lamps to extend the daylight hours. Do not forget about the air temperature, for heat-loving crops it should be at least 27 degrees, for cold-resistant crops no more than 25.

Top dressing

I always feed all seedlings in the process of growth, most often with mineral fertilizers. Before feeding, be sure to water the soil abundantly so that the weak root system does not receive chemical burns.

Growing seedlings and picking

If you are late with a pick, then you risk getting sluggish and weak seedlings. It is best to make the first pick when two or three leaves have appeared on the sprout. The picking allows you to increase the area, which will have an excellent effect on the formation of the root system and the aerial part of the shoots.