Considering Pro-Mix BX, Bottom Heat, Fan

15 years ago

Hello everyone -

I started nearly 200 Hippeastrum (Amaryllis) seeds last year but lost nearly all of them over a 6-month period. The seeds germinated easily in city water, then I very carefully transplanted them into a fast-draining mix. I used clay pots.

I lost most of them due to what appeared to be damping-off. I realize now I didn't fertilize adequately and probably over-watered.

This year I plan to use Pro-Mix BX, bottom heat and I plan to install a small fan for air circulation. I can't see any reason to grow under lights because I have sunny windows and/or I can take the plants outside.

I also plan to sow the seeds directly in the mix to avoid having to transplant to flats although I don't think the transplaning that was required last year damaged the seedlings.

Any other suggestions?

Thanks

MikeP

Central Florida

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Comments (3)

calistoga_al ca 15 usda 9
15 years ago
Bottom heat MAY help germination, but after germination the heat will tend to INCREASE the possibility of damping off. Over watering is a possible cause and I would only water from the bottom. A fan should help. Even though you use a sterilized soil, fungus is everywhere, so your growing conditions should not FAVOR the growth of fungus. Al
rhizo_1 (North AL) zone 7
15 years ago
Al brings up a very important point that I'll repeat yet again. Turn OFF the heat once the seeds have germinated! Not only will you reduce the chances of disease, but your seedlings will be stockier (a good thing) and sturdier.

I always germinate my seeds in a shallow seed flat and transplant from that into waiting containers, usually cell packs of some kind. The seed flats are heated but the transplants are not.

I think your plan sounds like a good one.
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mikep_cfl
Original Author
15 years ago
Thanks to both of you. Good thing you mentioned turning off the heat; that was one of the issues I forgot to ask about.

MikeP