Pepper seeds need more time, warmth and light to germinate than the seeds of other fruiting vegetables. The idea of growing peppers as soon as possible in order to have flowering plants and pods ready for harvest faster is tempting. But does an early preculture keep what it promises?

Everything at the right time - then it works better

Preparing peppers yourself before the beginning of March is not worth it. If there is a lack of light, the seedlings form long-stemmed, weak shoots whose cotyledons suffer from a lack of chlorophyll. That means they lapse. For the preculture in the room applies: everything at the right time!

When the time is right, growing peppers ahead offers several advantages. The plants set flowers earlier and deliver pods that are ready for harvest faster. In addition, the pepper seedlings are protected from wind, weather and snail attacks.

What do you need to pull up on the windowsill?

  • seed trays or seed pots
  • Potting soil or substrate
  • viable pepper seeds
  • Mini watering can or spray bottle
  • Mini greenhouse or foil

The best start for your pepper preculture

You can use yogurt pots or pots made from peat, coconut, or egg cartons. Compostable containers are particularly practical because the young plants can be planted directly later without damaging the root balls. Special seed soil is suitable for filling the containers. This is finer and less nutritious than potting soil and activates root growth.

The substrate should be damp but not soaking wet. Sow peppers in doses by placing 1 to 3 pepper seeds in each container. Cover the seed thinly with sifted soil and spray with warm water. To ensure the necessary warm, humid climate, place the seedlings in a greenhouse or covered with foil in a south-facing window. If the window sill is cold, place a heating mat under the pre-culture. The ideal soil temperature for germination is 25° degrees. Now air the pepper seedlings briefly every day to avoid mold growth. And then? Just wait and see;-).

What to do when the first seedlings sprout?

The germination time depends on the quality of the pepper seeds and external conditions such as light, temperature and humidity. 2 to 3 weeks later, when the first pair of cotyledons appear, remove the cover. Now it is important to keep the substrate moist without waterlogging. Because both waterlogging and drought are deadly for the delicate seedlings. After the last night frosts, you can plant the peppers in the garden. For this purpose, select the optimal location with sufficient planting distance in good time.

tips and tricks

Discard those who are weak or deformed. They are not suitable for cultivation. Put vigorous young plants outside a few hours longer each day to harden off.

Category:

Vegetable garden