GROWING TRANSPLANTS:

I. SOWING

Media

Sow seeds in a light, well drained media, such as 1 peat 1 sand or mixtures of peat moss, compost, vermiculite, and soil. A fertilizer of 100mg N, 200mg P, and 100mg K per kg of dry mix should be incorporated before sowing. A fungicide drench, such as Lesan half strength or Benlate, may help prevent damping off, if the media is not sterile. Cover seeds lightly, to a depth of 1/2cm of media.

Temp.

Cool temperatures are important to seed germination. Optimum germination occurs between 60-68°F. Sustained temperatures below 50 or above 75 F can be inhibitory to germination. Adequate water and partial shade can help reduce soil temperatures, if necessary, or flats can be covered with opaque plastic until germination begins to reflect light and retain moisture.

II. GROWING TRANSPLANTS

Temp.

After germination, plants grow best with high light in- tensity, cool temperatures (such as alternating 50-68°F or 50-77°F), and some air movement. If daytime tempera- tures are very high, it may be necessary to provide partial (20-25%) shade until plants are several weeks old. Transplanting If seeds were sown in seedling flats, transplant them to containers or cells in flats at the two to three true leaf stage. Bury the cotyledonary node when transplanting. Frequent fertilization with 20-20-20 or other balanced fertilizer is very important for seedling growth.