Seedlings and Growing On
These are my sweet pea seedlings I planted in early January and they have been in my unheated greenhouse in a polystyrene box with a clear polycarbonate lid and heavy flower pot on top to prevent mice eating them. How do I get ventilation in without letting mice anywhere near them. Or I could bring them indoors but I’m worried they will grow on too quickly. I’ve never grown sweet peas this early and am determined to get good ones this year!



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The problem with sowing in January is that the plants are becoming etiolated, so you'll need to pinch them out to get them bushier before planting out later in the year. They also need ventilation, so no need to cover them or over protect them. Once germinated, let them breathe
The ideal way is to sow in autumn in a greenhouse or cold frame, and let them germinate and grow slowly over winter, pinching out as and when needed, or wait until early spring to sow when temps are higher, and they need less attention. You want to have strong plants to plant out, as they'll be less vulnerable to attacks from slugs etc, and can withstand rougher weather more easily.
No need for lots of protection if sowing in spring either, apart from giving them a little cover if you have any severe weather, which will depend on where you are in the country.