I'm planning to start growing peppers and tomatoes indoors this year since I got a new grow light. Last year was my first time starting these plants from seed, and although I started them too late to move them outdoors, this year I want to get it right. I noticed that peppers tend to take longer to germinate compared to tomatoes. With just one grow light setup, can I prevent the seedlings from getting too leggy? What timing should I follow for planting? Thanks for any advice!
4 Answers
I usually start my peppers about three to four weeks before my tomatoes. You can definitely use one grow light, but once your tomatoes take off, they'll grow tall quickly. Peppers will be slower, only a few inches after ten weeks.
Absolutely, a single grow light can work, especially if it covers the seedlings well. I'd recommend starting your peppers now, and maybe wait until the first week of April to start your tomatoes. I'm in zone 5-6, and it works for me!
If you only have one tray, you might want to elevate the tomatoes with a few books to balance the height difference as they grow. You could also try rearranging your trays for better coverage!
That's a great idea! I can turn the trays sideways and fit two together, propping one up on books. Thanks for the tip!
It's hard to give a solid answer without knowing your grow light's specs. For instance, if you have something like a Vivosun, you're good, but for a cheap 4' LED tube covering 40 sprouts, you might run into issues. How many plants are you thinking of starting?
I have the Burpee grow light from Lowe's, the one that costs around 50 bucks. I'm planning to grow about eight tomatoes and eight peppers, so not too many.
That's similar to what I was thinking! I might start the peppers first and let them grow for a week before I add the tomatoes.