How To Separate Bell Pepper Seedling Carefully?

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Silvermist Sacramento, CA(Zone 9b) Mar 28, 2013

I planted 3-5 seeds a cup because I doubted they would all germinate, but most of them germinated. Now I have a problem...I carelessly sowed them too close and I don't know how I can separate them without doing harm. Any suggestions?

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flowAjen central, NJ(Zone 6b) Mar 28, 2013

I separated seedlings very carefully using a fork, but wait till they get 2nd set of leaves

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altagardener Calgary, AB(Zone 3b) Mar 28, 2013

All you have to do is water the pots very well, then gently knock the soil and seedlings out of the pot against the palm of your hand. Then gently push the soil ball apart to separate the seedlings' roots. Seedlings are actually remarkably resilient.
Yes, people typically wait until a set of true leaves has developed. I doubt there's any reason why this is necessary, but with small seedlings, it allows the plants to get big enough to handle more easily (not a problem particularly with pepper seedlings which are pretty big).

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Diana_K Contra Costa County, CA(Zone 9b) Mar 28, 2013

I do the same as altagardener suggests: Wet soil will fall apart, and this will essentially 'bare root' the seedlings. Plants them quickly into their own individual pots so the exposed root does not dry out at all. Do this indoors or in the shade.

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