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Hi everyone...do you germinate seeds in the dark? I thought it was best to put the planted seeds in light immediately? I never heard of germinating in the dark...this was suggested on the back of some seed starting mix.
Any help would be greatly appreciated.
THanks!
Some seeds (pansies come to mind) germinate better in the dark, yes. You can do this simply by putting a piece of cardboard over the seed flat... be sure to check it regularly so you can get them in the light at the first sign of germination!
Some seeds need light to germinate, but at Tom DeBaggio says, that doesn't mean they need to get a tan (his turns of phrase stick with me!)... generally enough light for the purpose will penetrate a very light covering of potting soil. I sow most tiny seeds by just pressing them into the surface of moist potting mix.
Thanks Critterologist, I have a ton of different veggies seeds, flower seeds and herbs which I just planted today, so I guess a little light won't hurt them. (No pansies). I was fortunate to purchase an excellent light stand at a reasonable price so I'm anxious to start using it. In the past I have always placed my trays in a west window with no problems...some of course germinate faster than others.. thanks again for your input.
I was (pleasantly) surprised to see how much difference it made when I switched from windowsill light to fluorescent lights for seed starting... I hope you have great results this year!
