You have chosen your favorite tomato variety and the seeds are there. We make no secret of how the little powerhouses can be encouraged to germinate.

How a gentle bath lifts the mood for germs

Experience has shown that tomato seeds respond remarkably well to a mild bath prior to sowing. The following variants have emerged as promising:

  • soak in lukewarm water overnight
  • Place in lukewarm chamomile tea for 6-8 hours
  • Put the garlic broth on top and soak in it for 2-3 hours
  • pickling in 2% valerian flower extract for 15 minutes strengthens resistance to mould

The desired temperature of the water or broth is easily maintained in a thermos. Garlic broth is easy to make yourself. Two cloves of garlic are pureed, dissolved in 10 liters of water overnight and sieved. What is not needed for the preparation of the seeds is later excellently suited as flavor-enhancing irrigation water in beds and pots. Valerian flower extract is available from specialist retailers.

In this way, germination progresses quickly

The soaked seeds are sown in seed soil without delay. As a light germinator, the seed may be covered by a maximum of 0.5 centimeters with substrate or sand. A distance of 3 centimeters between the tomato seeds is considered optimal. Place the seed pots (€16.68) in the partially shaded window seat. The ideal germination temperature is between 20 and 24 degrees Celsius.

A warm, humid microclimate noticeably promotes seed germination. You create these tropical conditions in a heated indoor greenhouse. Alternatively, stretch cling film over the pots. In both cases, regular ventilation must be guaranteed to prevent mold from forming.

Under the conditions described, you can assume a germination period of 10 to 14 days. During this time, make sure the seeds don't dry out or get drowned. Pouring from below has proven advantageous. To do this, place the seed pots a few centimeters in water. Thanks to the capillary forces, the water is sucked up to the surface without washing away the seeds.

tips and tricks

The resistance of young tomatoes to diseases is strengthened with the help of horsetail broth. While the seedlings thrive indoors, the bed outdoors or in the greenhouse is repeatedly showered with the plant decoction.

Category:

Vegetable garden