HOW TO START SEEDS

Starting seeds in pots will give them a head-start against root knot nematodes.

• If desired, pre-soak large seeds 1-2 hours to expedite germination.
• Buy seed starting mix or prepare your own (see recipe in SOIL section). Do not use backyard soil.
• Buy, reuse (sterilize with 1 part bleach to 9 parts water), or make newspaper pots. Remember to make drainage holes in recycled plastic containers.
• Leave an allowance of 1/16 to 1 inch clear at the top depending on the size of the pot.
• Plant 1-2 seeds per pot, to a depth that is equal to 3-times the thickness (not length) of the seed.
• If seeds are tiny, barely cover with a very fine layer of soil or vermiculite.
• Compress soil to allow seeds to make contact with the soil.
• Label pots. Old cutup blinds work well with a pencil marking.
• Keep seeds moist, but not soggy.
• Most seeds prefer 78 degrees to germinate.
• After germination, most seedlings prefer 65-70 degrees.
• After seeds sprout, place in sun or part sun.
• Bring seedlings INSIDE if an overnight temperature of 45 degrees or below is expected.
• Thin seedlings: pinch the weaker of the two. Do not pull seedlings. Pulling the weaker seedling will disturb the roots of the strong plant.
• Slowly work seedlings up to full sun.
• Fertilize ½ strength after seedlings develop first set of true leaves then weekly thereafter.