Re-potting & "Thigmotropism".....
Hi Dr.R......
I have a couple of points to offer for what they're worth:
I 've been growing from seed for a few years now and was told by someone I respect as being "in the know"
that all that is necessary is one re-potting after the seedling has aquired it's first or second set of "true leaves". This has, in my experience, led to stronger & stockier stems. I also grow from seedling stage to transplant stage entirely under my fluorescent light set-up. Only then do I take them outside for a few days to "harden-off" before planting in-ground. Otherwise, follow Gimme3's advice & go slow with the outside exposure.
I agree with GIMME3.... the fan DOES make for sturdier stems. The response of plants to "touch" or movement by air currents is called "thigmotropism" and was first observed when workers in greenhouses rubbed against the plants nearest the walkway and those plants grew decidedly stronger than ones farther back which were 'untouched'.
Just my 2 cents worth...
Good luck!!
LD
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