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How to water seedlings on a windowsill: advice from experts
14.01.2023 04:30
Updated: 13.04.2023 10:49
Many summer residents have started growing seedlings on the windowsill. But who thought about irrigation technology?
During the winter period, it is important to follow the basic rules and select watering methods for specific species.
What temperature should the water be?
A typical mistake many make is that they use regular water. There are several features that need to be taken into account:
- Comfortable temperature 20-25 degrees.
- There is no particular point in boiling water for irrigation. It is believed that when boiling, water loses some oxygen, and this always affects the plants.
- The best solution is filtered water. If there are no filters, you can simply pour water into a container and let it sit for a few days.
- You can slightly acidify the water. To do this, add 1 peat tablet and 1 g of citric acid per 10 liters of water.
Ideally, use melted or rain water; nothing better has been invented at the moment.
How often to water
In an effort to do better, small mistakes are often made that eventually become critical.
It is important to understand a simple fact: seedlings require moderate watering. The first watering is done before the shoots appear. In this case, the soil should be moistened once a day using a spray bottle. Before the shoots appear, it is important to do everything so that a crust does not form on the soil surface.
When the seedlings sprout, there is no need to rush. During this period, it is necessary to completely stop watering. This is an important moment, because the seedlings must get stronger.
Watering after the emergence of seedlings can only cause harm, and many do not understand this point or, for some reason, ignore it.
After the appearance of 3 leaves, the seedlings' needs for moisture begin to increase. There is a simple rule: water should reach the lowest soil layer.
This is why experts recommend growing it in transparent containers. If they are opaque, a wooden stick should be lowered into the soil to accurately determine the condition.
Watering seedlings of peppers, tomatoes and eggplants
The technology of watering these crops is not different, so it is possible to highlight standard rules. Until the first sprouts appear, containers with planting material should be kept under film. Spraying is carried out once a day.
When the first shoots appear, you need to wait a few days. This period is important, as the root system of the seedlings will gradually begin to strengthen.
It is important to stop watering 2-3 days before picking. The soil should be crumbly, if it is wet, some of the seedlings will be damaged.
Cucumber seedlings
Cucumbers require more moisture. After sowing the seeds, the container must be covered with a transparent film or lid. Then you must constantly monitor the humidity and water. Do not allow the soil to dry out.
After the shoots appear, the film is removed from the boxes. A pause in watering is made for 1-2 days. After watering, it is necessary to loosen the soil, preventing the formation of a crust on the surface.
Cabbage seedlings
Cabbage likes regular watering, but you should be careful. The soil should be slightly damp, but excess moisture can be destructive. Therefore, you should regularly monitor the condition and only perform moderate watering.
