Hi Wendey,

Well, unless you’re growing in a very cold area, you did not remove the seedlings from the heat mat too soon. So, that’s not your problem. I assume you removed the dome as well. Heat mats and domes should be removed as soon as the seeds have sprouted. Otherwise, things like root rot or damp-off could become a problem.

Also, the lights being 3 inches above the seedlings should not be a problem (with the lights you described). I usually keep my lights closer than that and have often seen my seedlings touch the fluorescent bulbs with no negative effects.

Is there a chance that you might have been keeping the growing medium too wet? That’s a common problem when growing from seed.

Art

Well I'll watch for that the next time around but don't really think so, yes the room is cool but not super cold. I will need to replant the seeds and be diligent to check every thing again. This has happened 2 times this year and i just don't get it.

Thanks much for the input Art
Wendey

Is it possible there's something wrong with the soil or contamination in the seed trays? Are you having success starting everything else this year but one type of pepper seed? The reason why I'm asking is because occasionally, some damage happens to seed batches such that they germinate okay, but die off as seedlings.

Hi agathafroo,
Not sure about the seeds I think they are ok, my guess was soil so i started over and the second batch with fresh soil is doing fine. Thank you for your helpful comments : )
Wendey