Germination indoors tips

Some tips for early seed germination indoors from http://ourohio.org/home-gardens/gardening-basics/winter/sowing-seeds-indoors/.


I was beginning to think that perhaps we sowed seeds in doors too early as some of them, having sprouted don't seem to be going too well.  So, I figured i'd do some research.  Below are the tips:

• germination rate of most seeds drops dramatically after the first year
• Seed-starting media are usually low in fertility. This means that a regular fertilization program is very important once seedlings emerge.
• The correct timing of seed sowing is an important factor in successful indoor seed starting. In winter months, overanxious gardeners may sow seeds too soon. Seedlings that are held indoors too long perform poorly once transplanted into the garden. Most seeds should be sown 4 to 12 weeks prior to transplanting into the garden. The time it takes for seedlings to be ready for transplanting outdoors will vary.
• An acclimation period before placing seedlings directly into the permanent growing site must be included.
• Once the seeds have germinated, you will see two seed leaves or cotyledons. Eventually, these seed leaves will wither. Next, true leaves will form. These true leaves look like the plant's typical leaves. Transplant the seedlings to individual containers once the first set of true leaves appear.
• Watering can be a cause of seedling failure. Keep soil moist but not wet. Small, tender seedlings dry out rapidly and can die. Remember that roots always must have oxygen, as well as water; therefore, do not keep the soil soaked. Water when the surface of the soil begins to dry out.
• Bottom watering helps prevent damage to the seedlings caused by a hard stream of water. Bottom watering also encourages deep root development and ensures that the entire depth of soil receives moisture. Do not let the pot or flat sit in water longer than it takes for all of the soil to become moist.

Bottom watering struck me as interesting.  This apparently helps grow longer stronger roots.  Shall experiment with this