cotyledon leaves aren't opening?

[Lorri D]

I have some tomato seedlings that are 2 1/2 days old. Their first seed leaves are still pointing up and they aren't opening. I was just wondering if this is normal or a sign of something else. Thank for the great advise!

[Ruth_10]

Are the seedlings under lights, within an inch or so of the lights?

If the seedlings are under lights and the seed coats are off, it can take several days for the first set of true leaves to start showing. The seedlings should be very, very close to the fluorescent lights. Mine are usually less than an inch away.

[JamesL]

Lorri,
Had a similar issue with a few of mine over the weekend.
Is the seed coat completely off?
The seed coat was off on mine but the cotyledon leaves were stuck together.
I sprayed them gently to moisten and "helped" them separate with a toothpick.
Emphasis on gentle. They are tougher than you think, but at the same time you don't want to cause undue damage.

If they are just pointing up and not stuck, just get'em close to the light.

[RayR]

That's pretty normal at only 2 1/2 days old for the cotyledons to be pointing up, they'll will spread out in a few more days.

[Lorri D]

Yes, the seed jackets are off. I went to see if they were stuck together and the ones I checked did not seem to be stuck together. They are just closed together and pointing up. They are at two inches from the light. I was worried it might be a sign of stress, but I feel a little less concerned now. I will wait and see.


I have spent a lot of money on lights and seeds etc... and I would kick-myself, if I messed up now.

Thank you for your help, it is greatly appreciated!

[JamesL]

What kind of light are you using? If florescent get them closer.

[Ruth_10]

Originally Posted by JamesL

What kind of light are you using? If florescent get them closer.

Yep, you can get them closer. As the first set of true leaves form, they will help push the cotyledons aside, if they are still sticking up. But, at 2-3 days, you're fine.