By Scout Nelson
Carrie Knutson, Horticulture Agent with NDSU Extension, shares a helpful lesson for gardeners preparing for seed starting season. Her experience offers important reminders to protect young seedlings and improve success indoors.
Seed starting season is near, and preparation is key. Last year, my favorite tomato variety began to struggle after transplanting. Leaves curled, lower leaves died, and growth seemed uneven. Although new leaves formed, older ones kept declining. The plants improved only after moving outdoors and planting deeply in the garden, where they later produced an excellent crop.
The exact cause of the problem remains unclear. However, this experience highlights important steps gardeners should follow.
First, always clean and disinfect containers and tools from the previous year. Wash them with hot, soapy water and soak them in a 10% bleach solution for 30 minutes. Disease organisms, including damping off, can survive in old containers and infect new seedlings.
Second, use seed heat mats and proper lighting. Heat mats warm the soil and support steady growth. Grow lights should run 12 to 16 hours daily to prevent weak, stretched plants.
Third, use fresh potting soil or seed-starting mix. These mixes allow proper drainage and reduce disease risks. Avoid reusing old soil.
Water seedlings carefully with room temperature water. Keep soil moist but never overly wet. Containers must have drainage holes. Watering from the bottom helps prevent overwatering. Pour water into the tray, wait about an hour, then drain excess water.
Fertilizer should only be used after true leaves appear. Apply a quarter-strength mix to prevent damage. A small fan can also improve air movement and strengthen stems.
Careful preparation and clean practices help ensure healthy seedlings and strong garden plants.
Photo Credit: pexels-binyaminmellish
Categories: North Dakota, Crops