Tips for using seedling trays

Always worried about slow seed germination and crooked seedlings? 

Don't worry, there are actually tricks to using seedling trays! Today, I will share with you some practical tips to help you easily grow strong seedlings.

Tips for using seedling trays

1. Preparation Stage

The key to soil matching: Choosing the appropriate soil mixture is the first step, and you can purchase nutrient soil designed specifically for seedling cultivation. It retains water and is breathable, making it very suitable for the growth of seedlings.

Seed and seedling tray preparation: Soak the newly purchased seedling tray in warm water for 2 hours to remove any odors. Fill each small grid with soil to 80% full, then gently compact to prevent collapse after watering.

2. Sowing and Watering

Sowing technique: 3-5 seeds per hole for small seeds and 1 seed per hole for large seeds. Watering is a great skill. A common mistake made by beginners is watering too much. In fact, simply immerse the seedling tray after sowing in a water basin, allowing the soil to absorb water from the bottom, and remove it immediately after the surface becomes moist. Keep the soil moderately moist and avoid water accumulation in the tray, otherwise the seedlings will rot.

3. Environment and Temperature Control

Temperature regulation: Environmental control is also important. The suitable temperature for melon vegetables is around 25 ℃, while for leafy vegetables it is between 18-22 ℃. During early spring seedling cultivation, plastic bags can be used for insulation.

Balance of lighting and ventilation: At the same time, attention should be paid to the balance of lighting and ventilation: place in a cool place before germination, and gradually increase scattered light after emergence; Open windows and ventilate for at least 2 hours every day to prevent the occurrence of seedling wilt disease.

4. Transplanting and Details Precautions

Transplant timing and method: The best time for transplanting is when the seedlings grow 3-4 true leaves. Three days before transplanting, "seedling refinement" should be carried out to reduce watering and increase light exposure. When transplanting with soil, the survival rate is higher. Use chopsticks to gently push it out from the bottom to avoid damaging the roots.

Careful observation and supplementation: For example, seedling trays should not be directly exposed to sunlight to prevent harmful substances from being released from plastic materials at high temperatures; When the leaves turn yellow, diluted rice washing water can be added, which is safer than chemical fertilizers; When encountering continuous rainy days, you can use a desk lamp to supplement the light and prevent seedlings from growing excessively.

In short, as long as you master the three key elements of water, light, and temperature, your success rate in seedling cultivation will be greatly improved!