Week 1: Seedling Stage
Day 4 - Vegetation Begins
The seedlings have emerged from the coco substrate, showing their first set of cotyledon leaves. The environment has been carefully controlled to promote optimal growth during these early days.
Grow Conditions:
Light Schedule: 20 hours on / 4 hours off, ensuring the seedlings receive plenty of light for photosynthesis and growth without overwhelming them.
Substrate Temperature: 21°C, maintained consistently to keep the root zone comfortable.
Day Air Temperature: 24°C, an ideal range to encourage early growth.
Night Air Temperature: 22°C, slightly cooler to mimic natural conditions and prevent any shock.
Air Humidity: 70%, keeping the air moist to assist with seedling transpiration and prevent drying out.
Lamp Distance: 25 cm from the plant canopy, ensuring the seedlings receive ample light without the risk of heat stress or light burn.
pH Level: Maintained at 5.8, optimal for nutrient uptake in coco coir.
Watering:
Watering Volume: 0.2 liters per plant every 24 hours, ensuring the coco stays moist but not waterlogged, promoting strong root development.
Nutrients:
Nutrients are currently at 40% of the recommended amount, including Cal-Mag for calcium and magnesium supplementation. The diluted mix provides a balanced introduction of essential nutrients (Athena Stack and silica), supporting the seedlings without overwhelming them.
In the next 1 to 2 weeks, the nutrient concentration will be gradually increased to 60-70% based on the plants’ response, ensuring they receive the right amount to continue thriving without any nutrient burn.
Observations: The seedlings look healthy, with a vibrant green color indicating good health. The cotyledons are fully open, and the first true leaves are beginning to form, showing signs of robust development. The coco substrate is well-aerated, and no signs of overwatering or nutrient deficiency are present.
Notes:
Adjustments in light height may be needed as the seedlings grow. The goal is to keep the light close enough for strong growth without causing stress.
Monitoring air humidity is crucial during this stage; the goal is to keep it around 65-70% to support the delicate seedling leaves.
A pH meter is used to verify that nutrient uptake remains optimal.
Looking forward to seeing these seedlings establish stronger root systems as we progress into week 2.
