Bottom Heat Tomato Seedlings?

[plantmark]

In past years I have always left my Tomato Seedlings on a heated sand tray with no cover. They have always grown leggy. Could the bottom heat be the reason?

[Acorn]

Hi Plantmark,

It definitely isn't due to the heated sand tray it's mainly due to the lack of light. They tend to stretch as they grow towards the light. Try using a florescence tube or sow them when natural day light is longer.

[plantmark]

Thanks Acorn. My greenhouse is in a spot which is a little shady but not excessively so. I tried a 250W Grow light last year but still got leggy seedlings. The 250W is expensive to run. Is a low wattage standard flourescent sufficient?

[DavidT]

It definitely IS due to the bottom heat. They are growing much too quickly because of it.

[plantmark]

Originally Posted by DavidT

It definitely IS due to the bottom heat. They are growing much too quickly because of it.

Thanks David, you have confirmed my suspicions. My seedlings germinated only a week ago and I removed them immediately after germination this year. They look better already.

[lazydog]

Slow and steady gives a stronger plant.Forced and they are weak,leggy and more prone to disease, thats what i have been taught.

[plantmark]

Having removed my Tomato seedlings from bottom heat this year they are much better, good sturdy plants this year.