On Nov 19, 8:31*pm, Michael Bell wrote:
I am growing alder seeds (specially selected from wild populations,
and quite a bit bigger) in wetted compost under lights. I pressed the
seeds in in their sides, they are too small for my big fingers to push
end -down. I have covered them with cling film and droplets of water
have condensed on the underside of the clingfilm. Temperature is about
25 C

After 2 days some of the seeds have white fungus around them. I
understand that this can be a normal part of the germination process.
But just to be on the safe side I have taken the clingfilm off for a
few hours to kill the fungus off by drying it out, the seeds haven't
sprouted yet - it has only been 2 days.

Am I doing right? Any helpful hints?

Michael Bell

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Germination time for seeds is very variable. Some seeds can take
years. Some only hours. Some have to pass through the gut of birds or
animals. Some even have to be subjected to fire. Most seeds though
are a lot less fussy but all have ideal conditions which vary.
Growing seeds under clingfilm is always a bit dodgy for the reasons
you now know. It's only done for idleness, people can't be bothered to
water.
The problem can be partially overcome by giving the soil surface a
spray with "Cheshunt Compound" a traditional copper based fungicide.
Available in virtually any garden centre.