Joy in the Little Things

[baymule]

How do you separate them?

 

[Phaedra]

How do you separate them?

Hi Bay, some I don't separate them - they can grow nicely in clumps; and for the ones I have to separate, I used this method (a video link starting from pricking out, but the entire video is pretty informative.)

It's easier to separate the seedlings when they have just cotyledons and a tiny root. I usually prick them out within 2-3 days after germination. This method (using small trays to germinate seeds and then moving strong seedlings into module trays) can save space and also rule out weak seedlings. The seedlings growing up in the module trays would have a more even development.

 

[digitS']

I'm gonna bookmark that and watch it all !

But, I can't do the cotyledon transplant thing. No, the risk of fumbling around with such tiny & weak seedlings with my big, awkward digitS' is too great! And, remember that the stem is nearly always singular and must be protected.

My approach: If you have the room. Give them enuf room and wait for first leaves - then, do your best to handle only the cotyledon when moving them, limit root damage as best as you can. If they are tiny/tiny seedlings at any stage, have DW move them. . No reason to be silly about the risk.

digitS'
Many Roots, Few Leaves, One Stem

 

[flowerbug]

i simply plant extra and then trim the extras without disturbing anything else. since i'm rarely doing seed starting these days indoors i'm not having to contend with this issue as much as i used to.

beets were always the notorius plants for having too many sprouts in a small space, but in recent times the seed companies have been chopping the beet seeds more and not as many are coming up. i still would thin as needed. beet sprouts are yummy.

 

[Phaedra]

I'm gonna bookmark that and watch it all !

But, I can't do the cotyledon transplant thing. No, the risk of fumbling around with such tiny & weak seedlings with my big, awkward digitS' is too great! And, remember that the stem is nearly always singular and must be protected.

My approach: If you have the room. Give them enuf room and wait for first leaves - then, do your best to handle only the cotyledon when moving them, limit root damage as best as you can. If they are tiny/tiny seedlings at any stage, have DW move them. . No reason to be silly about the risk.

digitS'
Many Roots, Few Leaves, One Stem

Hi Steve, it's also fine to wait a bit. Personally, I tried this method (with seedlings that have only cotyledons) by holding the leaves instead of the fragile stems). The longer they stay in the seeding tray (where they germinate together, not in the individual cells), it's easier for their roots to tangle with each other.

Sowing directly into module trays or soil could save some trouble. Each method has pros and cons. The best thing is we don't have to choose. We can take whatever delivers the most.

 

[meadow]

I'm gonna bookmark that and watch it all !

But, I can't do the cotyledon transplant thing. No, the risk of fumbling around with such tiny & weak seedlings with my big, awkward digitS' is too great! And, remember that the stem is nearly always singular and must be protected.

My approach: If you have the room. Give them enuf room and wait for first leaves - then, do your best to handle only the cotyledon when moving them, limit root damage as best as you can. If they are tiny/tiny seedlings at any stage, have DW move them. . No reason to be silly about the risk.

digitS'
Many Roots, Few Leaves, One Stem

You might find the Burgon and Ball Seedling Widger handy. I think Johnny's carries one that is the same or similar but more expensive.

 

[baymule]

Thanks for the Video and link. Now it makes perfect sense.

 

[Phaedra]

Ordered a lovely-printed sample and made a tea towel for our neighbor, who has two dogs.

She is so happy and gives me a big hug. Yeah, joy in the little things.

 

[digitS']

That was so appropriate, Phaedra.

People take pleasure in having their pets.

You have reminded her of the pets and the pleasure when they aren't with her ... and causing mischief. Instead, the towel is purposeful help.

Steve

 

[baymule]

What a thoughtful and lovely gift! You are such a good person, neighbor and friend.