[CH] Artificial Light Chile Starters
GarryMass@aol.com
Tue, 9 Feb 1999 10:56:35 EST
My chile plant seed-starting plans here in Massachusetts involve a 48" two
tube fluorescent fixture with one cool-white and one warm-white bulb in a
curved reflector set a scant eight inches above seeds in three inch pots,
gradually reducing to six inches above plants as they grow. I'm aiming for
400-500 foot candles of light on these seedlings. Studies show an average of
720 foot-candles at 6 inches dead center under the fixture, dropping off (but
useful) to about eight inches either side.
I use soilless mix, (2 parts milled sphagnum moss, 1 part perlite, 1 part
vermiculite) and one teaspoon of ground limestone (or 1/4 cup ground
eggshells). Prepackaged African Violet mix has also worked well as long as
lime is added as above.
Temperature control is crucial. I've had more damping off than I care to
admit. Strong light, minimum 65degree nights and 75degree days have worked
well.
As Byron (I think) said, I also make a wall on one side of red reflective foil
paper and (if I come by it easily) blue reflective paper on the "floor" of my
set up.
Finally, a weak tea of fertilizer (I use 5-10-10 diluted to 1/3 strength) is
applied weekly. Fish emulsion also helps tender plants resist "setting out"
shock and chilly nights in the cold frame.
Gareth the ChileKnight