I'm new to gardening, and my wife and I have planted way too many cucumber seeds in a Jiffy Seed Starting tray. They're starting to sprout, and I'm worried about overcrowding. Is it too early to thin them out, or should I take some out now? Will they be harmed by competing for space and nutrients? What's the best way to handle this situation?
1 Answer
It sounds like you're in a bit of a pickle! Cucumber seedlings do have sensitive roots, so separating them can make them temporarily stall in growth. If you're aiming for a bigger harvest, you might need to thin them out. I recommend carefully wetting the pod and making slits in the cover for easier removal without pulling at the roots. This way, when you transplant them, you can keep the roots in their original position which will help them settle in better.
How do you recommend thinning them out? How many should I aim for in each planter?