In this video, we'll show you how to grow healthy, robust transplants from seed.
How to Care for Your Seedlings: A Guide to Healthy, Strong Plants
Starting your own seeds is a cost-effective and rewarding way to grow unique varieties of plants. However, ensuring that your seedlings grow strong and healthy requires proper care. Follow these tips to prepare robust seedlings ready for transplanting into your garden.
Maintain Ideal Growing Conditions
Seedlings thrive in temperatures between 60°F and 65°F. Temperatures warmer than this can lead to weak, leggy plants. Avoid overwatering as it can cause damping off, a fungal disease that is fatal to seedlings. Ensure your tools and trays are clean to prevent fungal infections, and maintain good air circulation to keep plants healthy. Use a gentle spray or mist to water seedlings, such as a Fogg-It nozzle, to avoid washing out delicate plants.
Provide Proper Nutrition
The first leaves to appear are cotyledon leaves, followed by true leaves that resemble the plant’s adult foliage. Once true leaves develop, feed your seedlings with a low-NPK organic fertilizer, like liquid fish, to avoid excessive nitrogen that can lead to weak, leggy growth. Pair this with organic liquid kelp to provide essential micronutrients.
Ensure Adequate Light
Seedlings need 14–16 hours of light daily. Use a south-facing window or supplement natural light with fluorescent grow lights or a professional system like the Ruby Gro-bar Solar Oasis. Position the lights 2–4 inches above the seedlings for optimal growth.
Thin and Transplant
Thin out weaker seedlings using scissors to avoid disturbing the roots of healthy plants. If necessary, transplant seedlings into larger pots before planting them in the garden. Use tools like a widger to safely transfer plants.
Harden Off Seedlings
About a week before transplanting, harden off your seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions. Start with a shaded, sheltered spot and slowly increase sunlight exposure over 7–10 days.
With these practices, your seedlings will be ready to thrive in the garden. Take care of your plants and grow organic for life!
