I recently planted some seeds and a good number of them germinated successfully. They've been looking healthy, but I'm noticing that over the last few days, they're starting to yellow. I'm growing eggplants, chilies, and a gourd. Can anyone help me understand what's going on?
4 Answers
From what I can see, it looks like they're competing for nutrients. You've got quite a few seedlings in one container which can lead to issues like this. If they're indoors, make sure the lights aren't too far away. Also, have you fertilized them yet?
It sounds like your seedlings might be too crowded and could definitely use some fertilizer. Also, if they've been sitting in overly wet soil, that might be causing the yellowing too. Be sure to check the watering conditions!
Yeah, you nailed it! The soil's been pretty wet ever since I planted the seeds. Should I adjust how often I water them now?
You're definitely dealing with too many plants in one pot, as others mentioned. It's best to get them separated or into the ground soon. I usually direct sow my eggplant and gourds, and they thrive that way!
I had a rough time with eggplants and gourds last year, so I went a bit overboard this time to make sure I had some to grow!
Since they have true leaves now, it's a good time to split them up and repot. Just make sure to water them after that, but hold off on feeding until they recover from the shock of being moved around.
Got it! So, should I avoid fertilizing right when I split and repot?

Nope, I haven't added any fertilizer yet. I actually didn't know I needed to! I also haven't used the indoor lights for about a week; they've been by the window soaking up the sun for the past couple of days.