I started these 5 reapers on Jan 22, and they barely seem to have moved much since the first pairs of true leaves popped up 2-3 weeks ago. Some have the cotyledons wilting off before a second set of leaves has even started. I'm using a simple mix of coir and vermiculite. Pretty much following the YouTube videos in the wiki. One or two waterings had a tiny bit of Superthrive Foliago Pro mixed in. They're were all planted at the same time and both cups have gotten the same treatment, but one is clearly doing better. I know it's still early, but other non-superhot types I'm working with this year were way further along 5 weeks in.
They're on shelves under a tarp full time with the grow light on 12 hours a day, with humidifier misting 3x a day. Is this normal for this variety, or should I be changing anything up? Thanks!
by krivas
1 Comment
They look normal to me. I know you think it’s slow, but also now is the time when they’re gonna start taking off. Wait 2 weeks and compare, I can almost guarantee you’ll be impressed by the growth, unless something is really wrong.
Give them each their own cup. If you want to keep them all I would carefully transplant the smaller ones very soon. If you wait longer, the roots will be more entwined and more difficult to separate. If you only wanted 2, cull the small ones (based on leaf size and development, not stem length).
If they really are slow, check your light and nutrients. You might need a better light and more fertilizer. On lights, I would download the Photone app and use it as directed – you’re looking for at least 20 DLI. 30-40 DLI is best, once they have a few more leaves. On fertilizer, I would probably carefully increase the fertilizer amount. Use about 1/4 the amount recommended on the package, and do it EVERY watering instead of just sometimes.