Do you dream of juicy tomatoes or aromatic peppers?
Strong seedlings are half the battle! But what to feed the little green shoots so that they grow healthy and strong? The answers are not as complicated as they seem.
Seedlings are like a child: if you feed them correctly, they grow strong and are pleasing to the eye. Without feeding, the plant may stop developing, the shoots will become thin, the leaves will turn yellow. To prevent this from happening, you need to feed the plant on time.
Many gardeners rush to feed the seedlings immediately after the sprouts appear. But there is no need to rush. The best time is when the first true leaves appear. It is important to remember that excess fertilizers can be as harmful as their deficiency.
Signs that it's time to feed:
- the leaves have become pale or yellow;
- the sprouts have slowed down in development;
- thin and elongated stems.
How to feed seedlings for strength
The most accessible option is mineral fertilizers. Nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium are the three main elements for healthy growth. Complex mixtures such as nitroammophoska are suitable for seedlings. It is necessary to dilute strictly according to the instructions so as not to burn the roots.
If you want to grow organic vegetables, choose organics. For example, mullein or chicken manure infusion. It is important to dilute them in a high concentration of water, otherwise the roots are at risk of burning.
For lovers of natural things, grandma's methods are suitable:
1. Yeast infusion. Dissolve 10 g of dry yeast in a liter of warm water, add a spoonful of sugar.
2. Ash solution. A glass of wood ash per bucket of water.
3. Eggshell infusion. Pour boiling water over the shell and let it brew for a week.
In order for the feeding to be beneficial, it is important to follow several rules:
- Water at the roots, avoiding contact with the leaves.
- Fertilize in the morning or evening to avoid sunburn.
- After applying fertilizer, be sure to water with clean water.
The optimal schedule is once every 7-10 days. Alternate organic and mineral fertilizers. But remember: it is better to underfeed a little than overfeed.
Sometimes seedlings stretch due to excess nutrition. In this case, reduce the amount of fertilizing, increase the lighting and reduce the temperature.
