Should I feed my perennial seedlings

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BeckysueHill Robersonville, NC Apr 18, 2010

OK, so this is the first time I have started perennials from seed outside (Painted Daisies, Coral Bells, Delphinium, Shasta Daisies and a few more). Anyway, some have sprouted, but they are growing very slowly. I don't know if this normal or not. They are planted in soil that I worked composted manure into last year. So, should I just leave them alone or start feeding? Some of them have their first true leaves some don't. I'm used to the faster growing annual seeds. I know that some of these perennials will not flower until next year, but I did expect faster growth.

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ecrane3 Dublin, CA(Zone 9a) Apr 18, 2010

I always wait until they have a set or two of true leaves, and then use the fertilizer at 1/4 strength (when they're really tiny) and 1/2 strength as they get a little bigger. If you amended the soil last year I don't know if you need to fertilize or if it'll make them grow faster, but as long as you keep the fertilizer dilute it shouldn't hurt them. But what you're seeing is probably perfectly normal--they're going to focus on root development first, then once the roots are going nicely then you'll start to see the top growing more.

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BeckysueHill Robersonville, NC Apr 18, 2010

Thank you so much, I'll be able to sleep tonight!!! LOL

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