Question about temperature and seedlings

Qweniden · February 9, 2011

My understanding is that the heating pads are just for the germenation of the plant, is that correct? I think Ive read that the heating pads can kill the roots of the seedling so once a plant comes out of the dirt the plants should come off the heating pads.

If thats the case do the little seedlings have any temperature requreiments? I plan to grow them in my garage but it can get pretty cold at night around here (under 40 degrees). Would this kill the seedlings? Of so, what temperature is the minimum?

Thanks!

Granite26 · February 9, 2011

While the seedlings may not get killed off (unless they freeze) this seems pretty cold and I would think will stunt their growth. While not scientific I seem to have the best stocky healthy toms when I maintain 50's at night and 60's day. It seems a harsh and sudden change stunts them.

I should add I keep them much warmer as young seedlings and wait until they get true leaves and a few inches before I slowly start lowering the temps which seems to help them get stocky.

Qweniden · February 9, 2011

Thanks

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February 9, 2011	#1
Qweniden Tomatovillian™ Join Date: Apr 2010 Location: Sacramento, California Posts: 267	Question about temperature and seedlings My understanding is that the heating pads are just for the germenation of the plant, is that correct? I think Ive read that the heating pads can kill the roots of the seedling so once a plant comes out of the dirt the plants should come off the heating pads. If thats the case do the little seedlings have any temperature requreiments? I plan to grow them in my garage but it can get pretty cold at night around here (under 40 degrees). Would this kill the seedlings? Of so, what temperature is the minimum? Thanks!

February 9, 2011	#2
Granite26 Tomatovillian™ Join Date: May 2009 Location: Western WI Posts: 359	While the seedlings may not get killed off (unless they freeze) this seems pretty cold and I would think will stunt their growth. While not scientific I seem to have the best stocky healthy toms when I maintain 50's at night and 60's day. It seems a harsh and sudden change stunts them. I should add I keep them much warmer as young seedlings and wait until they get true leaves and a few inches before I slowly start lowering the temps which seems to help them get stocky.