Have you ever wondered how night frosts affect your precious pepper seedlings? If so, you're not alone.
Many gardeners face this problem, and the answer may not be as simple as it seems.
Nighttime temperatures aren't just a number on a thermometer. They're a key factor that can determine whether your pepper seedlings survive or die.
Pepper is a heat-loving crop, and even a slight cold snap can have a detrimental effect on it. But why is this so important? It's simple: at night, plants slow down the processes of photosynthesis and respiration, which makes them more vulnerable to cold.
So, what night temperatures can pepper seedlings withstand? Ideally, the temperature should not fall below 16-18 degrees Celsius.
However, if you want to be sure of success, try to maintain the temperature at least 20 degrees. At temperatures below 15 degrees, plants begin to experience stress, and at 10 degrees and below, they may die.
If you live in an area where nighttime temperatures can drop below optimal levels, you may want to consider taking protective measures.
Here are some tips to help your seedlings survive the cold nights:
1. Protective covers: Use non-woven materials such as agrofibre or spunbond to cover the plants. This will create an additional layer of insulation and protect against frost.
2. Heat lamps: If you have the opportunity, install heat lamps above the plants. This will provide additional heat at night.
3. Mulch: Place a layer of mulch around the plants to help retain heat in the soil.
If your pepper seedlings are stressed by cold temperatures, you may notice the following signs:
- The leaves become limp and droop.
- The plant slows down its growth or stops it altogether.
- Spots appear on the leaves or they begin to turn yellow.
