Anyone who’s ever maintained seedlings and cared for them knows that it’s a job of its own.
If you’re looking for ways to maintain strong seedlings all year round, you’re in the right place!
This article will guide you on all the ways and tactics you can have strong seedlings consistently all year. However, be mindful of the fact that these are NOT shortcuts, but instead just ways you can better maintain your seedlings.
Let’s dive right into it, shall we?
7 Ways To Have Crazy Strong Seedlings All Year
7 – Regulate Temperature
Ensuring optimal temperature is essential for seedling growth and sustainability. They typically prefer warmth and some humidity for seed germination, so anywhere between 20° to 25° should be “optimal”.
Seedlings do not tolerate temperature spikes well since they are relatively delicate compared to full-grown plants and trees. Try your best to store them in a place where the temperature is consistent and doesn’t fluctuate between extremes.
6 – Water As Needed
Many people have this habit of either overwatering or underwatering their seedlings because they believe extremes are better in this case. However, balance is essential – even when it comes to watering your seedlings.
Just water as needed and make sure the top inch of the soil remains moist at all times. Any more water than that will likely cause root rot and attract fungal diseases.
5 – Use The Right Soil
Most people would just use basic garden soil to grow their seedlings. And, while that might work, there is a high chance that your seedling will not receive adequate nutrients for maximal growth.
A good seed-starting mix or well-draining potting soil typically works well for seedlings.
4 – Fertilize As Needed
Fertilizers are also an important aspect of seedling care. While they can be beneficial for promoting growth, many people overuse them to the point that they start to develop something called a “fertilizer burn”.
A simple rule is to use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to an appropriate strength every 2-4 weeks to keep your seedlings thriving.
3 – Protect From Pests & Insects
Pesticides/insecticides must be used appropriately to protect your seedlings from tiny creatures that can cause massive damage. This is the key to strong seedlings since pest infestations can dramatically weaken them and hinder long-term growth.
Also, regularly check for signs of aphid and spider mite infestations or fungal diseases like powdery mildew in your seedlings as immediate action is often required if signs are apparent.
2 – Provide Sufficient Light
Lighting requirements depend on the type and variety of seedlings for the most part. However, almost all seedlings will require some bright direct, or indirect light to stimulate overall growth.
If natural light is inadequate and your seedling happens to be wilting or yellowing, consider investing in high-quality grow lights and position them a few inches away from your seedlings to keep them strong and healthy.
1 – Harden Off Before Transplanting
This is a strategy often used by experienced gardeners to familiarize seedlings with the harsh outside environment.
Gradually expose your seedlings to outdoor conditions like heat and wind for a few minutes/hours every day before going ahead and transplanting them. This sort of hardens them up and prepares them to thrive in slightly different conditions than they were initially used to.
The hardening period should ideally last 1-2 weeks before transplanting the seedlings.
Final Words
Having crazy strong seedlings all year round isn’t difficult. The key is proper care and maintenance, which a lot of people never provide and later complain how they don’t have the right growing conditions in their region.
Strong seedlings are a result of strong nourishment and gradual exposure to harsher environments to get them used to it. This is the right way to promote longevity in seedlings.
