Question
I have saved pepper and tomatoe seeds from last years garden
to plant this spring. Do I need to stratify them befor planting?
Answer
No you don't HAVE to, but it's a good way to start 'em, and
it let's you get a jump on the weather by starting them indoors.
I usually save my seeds in the freezer as well to simulate
a winter freeze; I find that you get better germination that
way. Doing them in peat pots or jiffy plugs is the best way
to go, as you don't disturb the roots when planting them out.
A fluorescent light is the best light to start them under;
keep the lights about four inches above the growing surface
(adjustable chains allow for plant growth). You should start
them around 8 weeks before you're going to set them out; don't
rush it or a late frost can undo a lot of hard work. But the
jump on Mother Nature can mean another month of harvesting,
so I think it's worth it!
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