Planning For Fall Seedlings

ermentrude · May 6, 2015

This is my first year growing from seed. Despite my spring seedlings getting very cold early on, they made it through just fine and are presently growing in my Earthboxes. Since I'm on a roll, I thought I should try a couple different varieties for the fall also.

Based on my local extension's calendar, fall tomatoes should be planted out between July 25th and 30th. I'll need to start the seeds in several weeks.

What do I need to be careful about growing seedlings in the hot weather? I know germination should be fine, but I'm not sure how the seedlings will react to the day to day disgusting heat and humidity (7 years and still not accustomed to this weather). I grew the spring seedlings in my garage with little grow lights and I could do the same for the fall tomatoes. Or I could move the setup to my heavily shaded screened in porch - better ventilation but also subject to the wind which can be a problem. Last option is a spare bedroom that would be air conditioned all summer (mid 70's).

Anything else substantively different about growing seedlings in summer vs. spring?

May 6, 2015	#1
ermentrude Tomatovillian™ Join Date: Aug 2014 Location: Charleston SC Posts: 34	Planning For Fall Seedlings This is my first year growing from seed. Despite my spring seedlings getting very cold early on, they made it through just fine and are presently growing in my Earthboxes. Since I'm on a roll, I thought I should try a couple different varieties for the fall also. Based on my local extension's calendar, fall tomatoes should be planted out between July 25th and 30th. I'll need to start the seeds in several weeks. What do I need to be careful about growing seedlings in the hot weather? I know germination should be fine, but I'm not sure how the seedlings will react to the day to day disgusting heat and humidity (7 years and still not accustomed to this weather). I grew the spring seedlings in my garage with little grow lights and I could do the same for the fall tomatoes. Or I could move the setup to my heavily shaded screened in porch - better ventilation but also subject to the wind which can be a problem. Last option is a spare bedroom that would be air conditioned all summer (mid 70's). Anything else substantively different about growing seedlings in summer vs. spring?