"NC" wrote in message
news
I've just bought and planted some basil seeds and tumbler tomato seeds.
20 of each have gone into a cheap propagator from B&Q (includes base
tray, seed tray insert and clear plastic lid). I have used B&Q seed
compost.
Where should I now put this ? Should it go into the airing cupboard (not
sure of exact temperature, but quite warm), a 'normal' cupboard (just
lower than room temp) or by a large window in the kitchen (West facing,
located in Suffolk, window gets good sunlight) ?
I am tempted to go with the windowsill - is this 'correct' ??

(sorry that this is such a novice question !!)

The seeds will geminate quicker with a bit of warmth aring cupboard-
not all seeds need warmth but toms and basil will benefit from it. Once
the seeds have germinated the shoots will need as much light as possible
to produce food through photosynthesis. So put the propagator in the
warm cupboard and leave it in there until any seeds have germinated.
Inspect the compost very closely once a day. Should be no more than a
week. Then bring it out during the day and leave it as close to the
window as possible during the day and put it back in the cupboard at
night. Warmth within reason helps all biological processes, and it will
prevent the compost surface becoming too cold over night and promoting
fungal growth - damping off. To this end keep the lid on at all times*
until the plants are fairly robust, and keep the compost damp by spraying
with warm water in a plant mister. Moving the propagator around will
do no harm to the seedlings at all - providing there are no shocks -
turn it around every day if possible. * I do this anyway. This alone
may be controversial.
After a few years when you get the hang of it you can learn
which corners you can cut. Anyway warmth to encourage germination
- light and no cold at night to promote growth and inhibit damping
off.

michael adams

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