In order to grow strong and robust seedlings of peppers and eggplants, and subsequently get a large harvest, be sure to buy seeds in specialized stores.
Selecting Seeds
Experts point out that when buying seeds, you should check the tightness of the seed wrapper and signs of possible moisture.
This usually results in bad seeds.
Important information for gardeners - old seeds will not produce good shoots.
To test the seeds you have purchased, make a saline solution and immerse them in it.
Empty and old seeds will float on top, so you should throw them away because they will not sprout. Those that have sunk to the bottom should be rinsed under water and dried.
Preparing seeds for seedlings
It is believed that the seeds sold in specialized stores have already undergone the necessary processing. But gardeners still resort to additionally preparing the material themselves. For this, they use a solution of potassium permanganate, hydrogen peroxide or fresh aloe juice.
The seeds are immersed in the prepared solutions for half an hour, after which they are thoroughly washed.
In the case of aloe, the seed material is wrapped in a cloth previously soaked in aloe juice. Experienced gardeners also use stimulants to improve germination.
Some gardeners harden seeds so that in the future the plants can withstand temperature changes and be hardened against nighttime cold snaps. To do this, they take them out onto the balcony or put them in the refrigerator.
Soaking seeds
When soaking, you should take into account the temperature conditions in different regions of residence.
You should follow the instructions on the seed packets. They indicate the germination period, which is approximately 2-3 weeks.
Strong seedlings should be planted in the ground after night frosts are no longer expected, otherwise the plants may die.
60 days is the necessary period for the sprout to strengthen. In the south, gardeners begin preparing seeds as early as February, while in the north it is recommended to start in March and early April.
