From our perspective, the journey begins with the signal of life. Our seeds are incredibly tiny, like dust particles, and require specific conditions to break dormancy. We need light to germinate, so do not bury us deep in the medium. A gentle press onto the surface is all that is needed. The medium must be sterile, finely textured, and consistently moist but not waterlogged. Think of a soft, damp sponge. The warmth is our catalyst; a steady temperature between 70-75°F (21-24°C) is ideal, often provided by a seedling heat mat. Under these perfect conditions, and with patience, our first delicate roots (radicles) will emerge, seeking anchorage and moisture.
Once our radicles secure us, our cotyledons, or seed leaves, will unfurl. These are not true leaves but provide the initial energy for growth. This is our most vulnerable stage. We are extremely susceptible to a fungal condition called damping-off, which is why sterile conditions are paramount. We crave bright, indirect light now—a south-facing window may not be enough, so a grow light positioned just a few inches above us is perfect, preventing us from becoming weak and leggy as we strain for the sun. Keep the humidity high by using a clear plastic dome over our tray, but remember to ventilate it daily to allow fresh air to circulate and prevent disease.
As we grow stronger, our first true leaves will appear, looking like miniature versions of our mature foliage. This is a sign that we are ready for more space and nutrients. Once we have two to three sets of true leaves, it is time for you to carefully prick us out and transplant us into individual small cells or pots. Handle us only by our leaves, as our stems are still fragile. The new growing medium should be a light, well-draining potting mix. This gives our roots the room they need to expand and access more resources, fueling our upward and outward growth.
We have grown accustomed to the stable, protected environment indoors. Before we can join the outdoor garden, we must undergo a process called "hardening off." This is a gradual acclimatization to the harsher conditions of the outside world—the wind, the direct sun, and fluctuating temperatures. Over 7-10 days, please place us in a sheltered, shady spot outdoors for progressively longer periods each day, bringing us back inside at night. This process slowly thickens our cuticle (leaf surface), reducing transplant shock and preparing us for a successful life in our final destination.
