Paper Towel Method - Failed?

pdxwindjammer · February 18, 2014

I usually grow my peppers in seed starting mix but this year I decided to try the paper towel method, which I have used for older tomato seeds. I started 10 different varieties this way on Jan. 31st so it has been 18 days. Not a SINGLE seed has sprouted!

I have them in a plastic baggie, they haven't dried out and I am keeping them on a heating pad since we keep our house at only about 65 during the day. The heating pad is on low so it is keeping them comfortably warm.

It seems at least a FEW of them should have sprouted since I started 4-8 seeds of each variety. These are the varieties I have started this way:

Bhut Jolokia
Shi★★★★o
Orange Manzano
Yellow Peter
Zimbabwe Bird
Chinese 5 Color
Mustart Habanero
Chilly Chilly
Riot
Candlelight

I know some of the super hots take a long time to sprout but it seems some of these should be well on their way already.

Pepper fanatics, please let me know your thoughts.

February 18, 2014	#1
pdxwindjammer Tomatovillian™ Join Date: Feb 2010 Location: Portland, OR Posts: 625	Paper Towel Method - Failed? I usually grow my peppers in seed starting mix but this year I decided to try the paper towel method, which I have used for older tomato seeds. I started 10 different varieties this way on Jan. 31st so it has been 18 days. Not a SINGLE seed has sprouted! I have them in a plastic baggie, they haven't dried out and I am keeping them on a heating pad since we keep our house at only about 65 during the day. The heating pad is on low so it is keeping them comfortably warm. It seems at least a FEW of them should have sprouted since I started 4-8 seeds of each variety. These are the varieties I have started this way: Bhut Jolokia Shi★★★★o Orange Manzano Yellow Peter Zimbabwe Bird Chinese 5 Color Mustart Habanero Chilly Chilly Riot Candlelight I know some of the super hots take a long time to sprout but it seems some of these should be well on their way already. Pepper fanatics, please let me know your thoughts.