7 MISTAKES To Avoid With TOMATO SEEDLINGS

Overwatering: Tomato seedlings need to be kept moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot and stunted growth. Water the seedlings when the soil feels dry to the touch, and make sure there is proper drainage.Show more

Insufficient light: Tomato seedlings need plenty of light to grow properly. If they are not getting enough light, they may become spindly and weak. Place them in a sunny window or under a grow light for at least 12-14 hours a day.

Planting too deep: When transplanting tomato seedlings, be sure to plant them at the same depth they were in their previous container. Planting too deep can cause the stem to rot, while planting too shallow can cause the roots to dry out.

Crowding: Tomato seedlings need plenty of space to grow. Crowding them can lead to competition for nutrients and stunted growth. Plant them at least 2-3 inches apart in a well-draining soil mix.

Over-fertilizing: Too much fertilizer can burn the delicate roots of tomato seedlings. Use a balanced fertilizer sparingly, and follow the package directions carefully.

Excessive heat or cold: Tomatoes are a warm-season crop and prefer temperatures between 60 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep the seedlings away from cold drafts and extreme heat.

Lack of hardening off: Tomato seedlings need to be gradually acclimated to the outdoors before transplanting. This process is called hardening off and involves gradually exposing the seedlings to outdoor conditions for a few hours each day over the course of a week. Skipping this step can lead to transplant shock and stunted growth.