Weak seedlings

Hi guys

My vegetable seedlings are always very weak. I use good soil, the correct cells, mostly heirloom seeds and also plant by the moon however my seedlings seem to get to a certain size (not very large compared to the seedlings for sale in general stores) and then stop growing also the roots dont seem to fill the cells (like the letters do)

Could it be that they are not getting enough light?
My greenhouse is situated at the bottom (small valley) of our land and possibly it loses light.

Cheers

There are lots of reasons seedlings don’t prosper. Too much or not enough light, same with temperature, same with water. No air circulation in a greenhouse is a huge problem for seedlings; Too much humidity, not enough humidity.

As to soil; it needs to conducive to growing seedlings; not repotting plants.  

The source of your seeds is always a factor.  Not every seed manufacturer produces great seed. Not all heirloom seeds are equal!

There are so very many variables that without more information it is hard to pinpoint your problem.  However!  There are so many great sites on the internet about setting up and growing in a greenhouse.  As well as a multitude of books on the subject.

If it were me, I would do research about greenhouse growing and then ask this very knowledgeable group some very pointed questions based on what I was doing.

As to light…how many hours a day would you say your seedlings get sunshine? Or growlighting?

Hi Janet many thanks

From about 7.30 am to around 6.30 pm however the seed trays are a little shaded by some tree seedlings they live next to.
Im wondering if the cells might be a little too waterlogged.

Water logged would be a big problem.  Seedlings need their roots to breathe.  Things need to be kept moist but not wet. It’s better to moisten trays several times a day by misting than it is to water.  And, trays need to drain.  Your medium that you are planting in should be specifically for seedlings if you are having problems.  A light non compacting mix. In a production greenhouse it is common to see misters over seedlings until they have established.

You should know what the humidity is in your greenhouse and fans are always a good idea to provide circulation to avoid seedlings “ damping off.”

Low light tends to result in “ stretched” or thin tall seedlings. So….you’ll have to be the judge.  

Check roots in established plants to see that they are white not dark: which is a sign of over watering.

Good question.  Let me know what else I can answer. ( if I know the answer!) 🥸

Great stuff, thanks so much :)