[CH] seed germination
R.M.Neely (rmneely52@yahoo.com)
Sat, 1 Dec 2001 17:43:55 -0800 (PST)
This is a bit lengthy, but has worked well for years..
Solution:
KNO3 (potassium nitrate, saltpeter) 3.5 grams
Ortho "Up-start" root stimulator 25 milliliter.
(active ingredient: Indole-3-butyric acid 0.003 %)
Measure the two ingredients into a two liter coke
bottle. Fill with water. Use this solution to
thoroughly moisten the potting soil.
Germination:
To heat the seed, I use an old egg incubator set at 88
degrees. Humidity runs around 90 - 95 %. The
incubator is a homemade chest type which uses a 100
watt light bulb for heat, a liquid-filled wafer
thermostat, (available at feed and seed stores for egg
incubators), light dimmer switch, and a used PC air
circulation fan. You can build your own out of an old
refrigerator or wooden box. Use your imagination. My
"Box" is an old heat treating oven out of a machine
shop.
Procedure:
Cut the bottom 2 inches off a 2 liter coke bottle.
Loosely pack about 1 inch of prepared soil in the
bottom. Place seeds on top. Cover with another ½
inch of soil. Put inside a 1 quart size zip-lock bag
and seal. Place in incubator.
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