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Growing from Seed

lighting needed for seed germination

17 years ago

This is the first year I am starting some petunia seeds. I started them yesturday in my basement. I have a 2foot by 5 foot window in there facing south. I don't know if that is enough light. Can I put them under my grow lights as well. I know you put them under the grow lights when they are just up but to make sure they have enough light can I put them under the grow lights as soon as the seeds are planted?

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Comments (2)

almax881
17 years ago
You don't really need light to germinate seeds. Add the light once the seedlings emerge.
kayhh
17 years ago
Petunias do need light for germination, but your little window should be plenty. What is critical is that you don't cover the seed, only press it gently into the soil.

The frustrating thing about petunias is that they seem to take FOREVER to get past the 2 leaf stage. It's like they go into a weird limbo and just don't grow. But once they do get that second set of leaves, they really take off.

Another important thing to keep in mind, since they do stay so small for so long, they are prone to damping off. You can prevent this by making sure they get plenty of air circulation. I just run a ceiling fan in the room, but any fan will do. Just don't blow directly onto the small plants. No more than a quiver of the leaves.

Good luck!! Kay.
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