Condensation within propogater- a potential problem for light-germinating seeds?

[Samuel1988]

Evening all,

I have started sowing some seeds within a propogater within the greenhouse and have come across (excuse if I show any ignorance here - I am still finding my way!) a species where is advises me to not exclude light as this helps the germination process (I presume this means that light is important to help the seeds germinate in ADDITION to warmth of the soil? I have always presumed all seeds need light to germinate! If anyone can help me get around this would be great!).

My greenhouse is not very big and swings pretty far in terms of temperature changes - as a resulte I am getting a lot of condensation within the propogator. I was just wondering if this condensation will block out a lot of the light and hinder the germination process and if I should routinely wipe it off/remove the lid for most part of the day and keep it on during the evening?

Thank you for your help,

Samuel

[rustylady]

Think about it Samuel. Most seed packets state the depth at which to sow seeds. If it says half an inch deep, then the seeds are in the dark under the compost.

The condensation won't block much light, but it may be a sign that your compost is too wet. Take the lid off your propagator when the greenhouse is hot, and replace it when it cools.

Exactly how big is your greenhouse?

[Samuel1988]

1.5m x 2.5m

[veggiechicken]

Are these very small seeds, Samuel? "Do not exclude light" means "do not cover (with soil)"? Its no more complicated than that! A clear lid, or even one with condensation, isn't going to make much difference, its the fact that, as Rusty says, they're not underneath the soil in darkness.
I always keep my propagator in the house where the temperature is more stable. Greenhouse temperatures can fluctuate too much especially at the moment when we have freezing temperatures overnight. If you have a lot of condensation you need to water less, or ventilate the propagator.

[Two_Sheds]

Samuel, I don't think you have a greenhouse, I think you have a blowaway, is that right?
They don't insulate very well at all, so be careful not to put your half-hardy annuals in there yet



Condensation: means something's too wet. Just like in your bathroom, when that steams up. Keep the compost moist, not wet

how to water seedlings - YouTube