I've started my gardening journey with an allotment and I'm trying to grow aubergine and pepper seedlings for the first time. I soaked the seeds for 24 hours and then placed them in wet paper towels, but it's been 6 days and very few have shown any root development. Should I wait longer for the ones that haven't sprouted yet, or are they likely no good? Am I possibly doing something wrong?
3 Answers
I have a handy tip! Use an old tin, like a Quality Street tin. Wet a thick paper towel but don’t soak it, fold it in half with the seeds in between, and close the lid. Just open it for a few seconds each day to let it breathe. This method has helped me get seeds germinating reliably!
I’ve had some luck sprouting hot peppers between moist paper towels. My first roots took 6 days, but it’s now been 17 days and only a few have sprouted so far. Just remember, it might take some extra time—patience is key! This year, I’m keeping my house around 23 degrees Celsius, and I’ve found that a heat mat can sometimes mess things up!
Make sure you're starting your seeds in a warm spot! A sunny windowsill works great for sprouting. If you keep them too cold, they might struggle to germinate.
Thanks for the tip! I have a plastic box right now, but I’ll definitely give the tin method a try.