If you're keeping a record of sowing and sprouting dates

[Gryfon]

Do you say they've sprouted when you see the first one come through? Or wait for a few more?

I want to get my records right

[FionaH]

I do mine with the first one, then make a note if I have good or poor germination rates. Dont think it matters as long as you stick to one method for all of it

[Gryfon]

Cool thanks. Just looking at my marigolds the packet says keep at 18-25 degrees, but mine have been out in the greenhouse (still with bits of glass missing so not completely enclosed!) for the last 5 days and have started coming through already! I thought they would have taken longer.

[Hazel at the Hill]

I agree with Fiona - as long as you're constant, it doesn't matter.

Mind you, I note the date when about a third have come up i.e. about half of what I expect to germinate. They're all generally up within a couple of days of each other anyway.

[Alison]

As already said, it dosen't matter so long as you're consistent, it's up to you. I record when the first one comes through and then make another record as more come up (not for each one tho) eg sown 31-Mar-09, first seedling 05-Apr-09, half through by 10-Apr-09 etc etc. Will also note how many I grow on to adulthood as I sometimes bin some of the weedier ones and keep track of the total number of plants. I find it very helpful for planning the next year as I also record yield.

[jacob marley]

I used to but do not bother any more it is to much hassle that i can do without the stuff still grows the same and you get suprise's as well...jacob

[selfraising]

I usually make a note of the first one and then how germination went overall.