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Seed sowing

thefostersthefosters Posts: 78
in Problem solving
I am having a go at growing plants from seed.
I sowed dwarf dahlias 10 days ago and they germinated within a week, indoors in a small seed tray with a piece of glass on top. The seedlings are about 6cms tall now but there are no signs of "true leaves" When do the true leaves appear and must I wait before I prick them out.

Posts

  • BobTheGardenerBobTheGardener Posts: 11,391
    You need to remove the glass and get them into good light, but not direct sunlight for a few days or they will quickly wither.  At 6cm high without any true leaves very likely means the seedlings have become 'etiolated' by being kept too warm and with too little light which is what they are reaching for.
    A trowel in the hand is worth a thousand lost under a bush.
  • thefostersthefosters Posts: 78
    Thank you. I had removed the glass cover and the tray is at a north facing kitchen window. I have some more seeds should I just start again
  • UpNorthUpNorth Posts: 376
    No need to start again

    Rules are there to break!

    Two points....you don't really (always) have to wait for true leaves so if you feel they must move on, just do it....very gently, don't squeeze the tiny stem.

    Now the other point...you can 'bury' your seedling deeper to deal with the legginess. 

    The amount of water and light are very Important.

    Some seeds are easy.  Some harder.  Don't give up, do some more!
  • thefostersthefosters Posts: 78
    Thanks for the advice.
     I am pleased to report I have tiny true leaves appearing this morning, only a few mms long at present but I can see them!!!
    When I move the plants into pots can I keep them in a small cold frame. Although its sunny here in the east of Scotland at present it is still pretty cold in the east wind. 
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