The main conditions for strong seedlings

A good harvest can only be expected from strong and healthy seedlings, so it's important to choose seeds wisely and ensure suitable conditions. Seedlings of all crops are grown according to similar rules.

Seeds and temperature

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Seeds are also crucial. They are very sensitive to temperature. If they aren't maintained properly, you won't get healthy seedlings. It's best to purchase seeds from popular brands. They are known for their high quality. For uniform germination, a temperature of 25°C is required, while heat-loving plants need 30°C. After germination, the temperature is reduced to 16°C to 20°C. This depends on the crop—for example, tomatoes grow well at 14°C—and also on the time of day. The room temperature is higher than on the windowsill, and even lower in the soil. If the temperature is very low, it's best to place the seedlings in a warm place.

Watering and humidity

Seedlings require adequate moisture. Their roots are small, so they need to be watered more frequently. However, overwatering is essential, as this will impair root development and may cause the plant to die. High temperatures and light levels require more water. Furthermore, humidity varies depending on the specific plant characteristics; for example, cabbage requires more moisture than eggplants and peppers.

To obtain compact seedlings, it is recommended to water them with water containing a weak 0.1–0.15% concentration of mineral fertilizers.

Soil requirements for seedlings

Seeds won't germinate without adequate oxygen, which is hindered by dense soil and any crust on the surface. Therefore, the soil should be watered before sowing the seeds, and it should be loosened regularly thereafter. The planting soil must be well-drained, especially for pumpkin plants, whose growth is negatively affected by oxygen deficiency. It should be free of any of the following:

• weeds;
• insect pests;
• pathogens.

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A normal soil pH for planting seeds is considered to be 6.0-7.0. The soil should contain elements available for seedling growth and development, such as potassium, phosphorus, nitrogen, iron, copper, and others. Good soil contains peat and loosening agents. Over time, seedlings will absorb all the nutrients, so they need additional feeding. Initially, seedlings require nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizers. During the flowering stage, all elements are needed. Experienced gardeners recommend fertilizing with complex fertilizers that are readily soluble in water.

Illumination

Light is crucial for growing seedlings, especially during the winter months, as photosynthesis is impossible without it. Watering, fertilizing, and maintaining a certain temperature should be done with light in mind. It's best to grow seedlings in a location away from radiators and windows. A wall-mounted rack is ideal. However, they should be provided with supplemental lighting using special lamps. This will prevent the seedlings from becoming too tall.

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Flower seeds started in winter require 24-hour light at first, then reduced to 12 hours. Seedlings grow well, become stronger, and develop a good root system in bright light and cooler temperatures.

Hardening off seedlings

Before planting seedlings in open ground, they need to be hardened off, that is, accustomed to natural conditions. Watering should be gradually reduced, and supplemented with potassium and phosphorus fertilizers. Be sure to take them outside periodically. The plants will gradually become stronger, after which they can be planted in their permanent location and watered thoroughly. After five days, the soil should be loosened. Seedlings that will be transplanted into a greenhouse do not need to be hardened off. Light is essential for seedlings; a day length of 12 to 16 hours is considered ideal, and sowing time is determined based on this.

As a result, they will grow up unhealthy, and many will not survive transplantation. April is considered the optimal time. It's a good idea to have a supply of seedlings to replace any that die. It's a good idea to have a covering material on hand in case of late frosts, which can be used to cover the plants if needed. All plantings should be clearly visible. Regular inspection is essential. This will help detect insects and diseases early.