'DP',

I think that you are starting the seeds too early with probably too much
heat and not enough of light and ventilation. In those conditions they
become leggy and weak.

Last year I started my Cosmos Sonata Mixed on the 11 April in moist
compost with clingfilm over it and they germinated in about four days in
a temperature of just over 70°, as recommended on the packet.

I watched them closely and removed the clingfilm promptly as soon as the
first seedlings appeared. Then I exposed them to maximum light and
ventilation in a temperature of about 50°. Turn the tray daily so that
maximum light is shared by all. I gradually hardened them off and
potted them up when they formed their second pair of leaves.

I intend to do the same again this year, weather permitting.

You have more than ample time to start again and that is what I
encourage you to do, using the above strategy as a guide. By all means
use the plant trays.

Regards,
Emrys Davies








"DP" wrote in message
...
Hello

I'm beginning to think that this years seedling will go the same way
as last
years.....

I've planted a couple of trays of seeds (Cosmea/Cosmo ?) and they've
shot up
to 2-3 inches tall in the space of 1-2 weeks. However, some are now
starting to topple over and a couple of them have withered at the
base.
They are planted in 3cm square plant trays

This happened last year as well, when I had a couple of trays of weedy
(horizontal) seedlings. What am I doing wrong?

TIA

David