Germinating seeds on a windowsill

[Russel Sprout]

Hi all

Sorry for all my recent questions! I've got so much to learn...

We're starting to grow our plants from seed this year. We've already done some and have put them on south facing window sills to germinate because they are the warmest spots in the house. We use very little hot water, so the airing cupboard won'y be of use. We don't have the heating on at this time of year. And we don't have a greenhouse or anything like that. Hence why we've gone for the windowsills as all other areas seem like they might be too chilly; especially over night.

I'm trying to learn the best methods for seed germination and having been reading and watching videos. Some strongly suggest NOT putting seed trays on window sills/in strong light until after the seeds have germinated.

So I'm wondering how critical that advice is and whether we are likely to have no plants/weak plants if we continue as we are?

On a separate point, AFTER germination I was going to continue to have the plants on the windowsill. Again, some say this is a bad idea and will result in leggy poor quality plants. They recommend using artificial lighting instead. Again, I wondered what people's thoughts on this are.

Many thanks for everyone's time and for sharing your knowledge.

Max

[veggiechicken]

Just a few quick answers ! Seeds don't need light to germinate just warmth. Your normal house warmth may be sufficient.
An electric propagator is a good way of heating a small area to kick start seeds like tomatoes that like a bit of extra warmth.
Once seeds have germinated they need light - thats when you need the windowsills. However, be aware that at night the temperatures there will fall - don't keep them behind closed curtains.
They can also get too hot, if in direct sunlight! Keep an eye on the watering but don't wet the leaves, just the compost.
Seedlings will grow to the light so turn them, at least daily, to straighten them up.
You learn over time what works for you and your situation. Have fun

[Chris11]

Seeds don't need light to germinate just warmth.

That's true generally, and is a good rule of thumb, but there are also types that definitely need, or at least benefit, from some light for germination.

Agree with suggestion for heated propagator, even a basic one will make a big difference. You can get them for as little as £12-£15.

Wilko Propagator Electric 38cm at wilko.com

[veggiechicken]

That's true generally, and is a good rule of thumb, but there are also types that definitely need, or at least benefit, from some light for germination.

That probably applies more to the depth of soil at which they are sown (which would be found on the packets) rather than putting them on a windowsill.