I'm trying to germinate pepper seeds for the first time this year, but it hasn't gone as planned. I sowed my seeds 13 days ago, and they haven't shown any signs of germination yet. The seed packet said germination should happen within 10-14 days, so I'm wondering if the cooler temperatures in my basement might be to blame. It's only about 5-10 degrees warmer than outside. Should I move the seeds to a warmer room and give them another shot, or should I just start fresh with new seeds? I could also just buy some pepper plants from the store since it's already mid-February. What do you think?
3 Answers
Most peppers really thrive at around 17°C for germination. If you can give them some extra heat, like using a heat mat or placing them near a heater, that could do the trick. I've successfully germinated mine after keeping them warm for just a few days!
Be patient! The germination times on the packet are for ideal conditions, and sometimes they take longer than expected. It's also important to ensure the soil stays moist and warm. Maybe consider a heat mat if you're serious about not losing the seeds!
Definitely try moving your seeds to a warmer spot before giving up completely. Seeds can be surprisingly resilient, and just like in nature, they need the right warmth to sprout. Don't stress yet; they could still be viable!