How to grow strong vegetable seedlings in ideal microclimate
Temperature is more than a simple number on a thermometer. It affects how seeds sprout, how plants make food, their roots, and overall health. If temperatures are wrong, plants can become stressed. This stress can slow their growth or even kill young seedlings.
What temperature do flower and vegetable seedlings need? The answer depends on the type of plant. For example, tomatoes and peppers like warm weather, while cabbages and salads prefer cooler temperatures. Let’s examine this more closely.
When the temperature drops below +13°C, pepper plants grow slower. At around +5°C, they can die. Each plant has its own safe temperature limits. For example, tomato seedlings need at least +10°C to grow well, and cucumbers need +12°C. If it gets colder than these limits, the plants may stop growing or die.
Pumpkins are very sensitive. Their critical temperature is +5°C. At this point, their roots stop working, which can cause the pumpkin plant to die. How can you create the best conditions for seedlings?
If you’re growing seedlings in a greenhouse, make sure there is good airflow and heating. This helps prevent overheating during the day and keeps the plants warm enough at night.
When seedlings are on a windowsill, avoid drafts and keep them away from radiators that can overheat them. Before transplanting outdoors, the seedlings need to be hardened. This means slowly lowering their temperature so they get used to the outside air.
Hardening makes roots stronger and can lead to better harvests. It’s also important to watch humidity and light. High humidity at low temperatures can cause mold or fungus. Not enough light can stretch out the seedlings and weaken them.
Keep an eye on the room’s environment. Water the plants carefully—don’t overwater. Use fertilizer to help the plants grow, but don’t use too much. Excess fertilizer can harm the seedlings.