Re: Long and lanky seedlings
In a message dated 4/1/01 8:45:54 PM Eastern Daylight Time, Botleking@aol.com
writes:
<< The plants are out of the ground for 10 days, got there
first true leaves, but are long and lanky. Some have bent over. I had them
under a grow lamp for 15 hours a day. The lamp was 8 inches above the
seedlings. How can I get my plants more sturdy, when I plant my good seeds.
Any advice would be appreaciated. >>
Mike:
The condition of your seedlings is called "leggy". This is a somewhat common
occurrence. True legginess in pumpkin seedlings cannot be reversed nor it's
impact lessened if planted deeper into the soil, as one might do with
tomatoes.
To avoid leggy seedlings in the future, plan your seed's germination to
coincide with your planting schedule, which would be based largely upon frost
free dates for your area and individual patch readiness. If you're not ready
to plant outside, don't start seedlings.
Also, if you are not direct sowing, choose containers that are large enough
for the AG seedling to germinate, such as a pint sized ice cream container.
Considerable tap root development often takes place before the seedling
breaks soil. Once the seedling has sprouted, put it in the light to green it
up and help shed the seed coat. Plant it in the garden as soon as possible.
Good luck this season.
Barb
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