Beginner Gardening: When to add a fan on new seedlings?, 1 by Gymgirl

Gymgirl wrote:
Heroncove13,
I have used a fan in the past, and there is benefit for using it, like you've read. I just didn't do it this time. But, I noticed I did have more gnats than I had when I used the fan, so, I may use it on the next seedlings I sow.

I used regular old shop lights, nothing special. Bought a case of cool lights on sale at the box stores, 10 for $12, so I'm set for awhile! Sounds like you're up and growing in great conditions. Oh, one thing. I have FOUR shop lights per shelf. I started with two/shelf for a couple seasons, then reset them to accommodate two kits side by side. I noticed a difference this time. Stronger seedlings from the start, and more light on the edges of the trays. Before the ones on the ends weren't getting enough light (leaning into the center of the shelf). Now they grow straight up and down!

Just a word of caution about the fan and the dampness of your pots. Just like human babies turn blue when they get too cold, your seedling stems and the undersides of the leaves will start to turn PURPLE if your babies get too cold and the soil is too damp. So, err on the side of keeping your soil just this side of damp, and never let them sit in water. Once you've watered and the top of the soil is moist to the touch, pour off any excess water. Too damp + too cold = unhappy, purple babies!

Here's a pic of some too cool seedlings. You can see the purple tinge. Poor babies!

Linda