The advantages and disadvantages of starting seeds early

[Oliver]

Just from what I've read in your posts I think you have the right approach. I've seen some places a soil temp of 60 for planting, but it seems to me you have enough experience to know what will work.

[Milan HP]

Originally Posted by Oliver

Just from what I've read in your posts I think you have the right approach. I've seen some places a soil temp of 60 for planting, but it seems to me you have enough experience to know what will work.

Hello Oliver,
I am not so sure about that. Actually, I hadn't payed much attention to the soil temperature before and my toms did okay. However, this extremely cold spring and perhaps last year's experience have made me more interested in details.

I like solving problems, so I have devised a plan to raise the temps a bit. Black non-woven fabric on top of the soil prior to planting-out (but if there's little or no sunshine, it won't help much). And a kilo or two(?) of manure mixed with biomass (cut grass) under each plant. Watered with 100°F water to speed up the fermentation process. Can't think of anything else.

What do you think? Could it work? Thank you.
Milan HP

[Oliver]

I think it could work. I haven't heard of the 100 degree water trick. Could help to raise temp under the fabric.

[Milan HP]

Hello Oliver,
the trick was performed just today. I left out the hot water part as the day was really sunny and hot. I just made and filled the holes in the morning and then I left them open for the sun to heat the inside. Planting out only started at 6 pm. I didn't bother to measure the temp, but it felt warm to touch - probably over 80°F. Tomorrow's gonna be another hot day, so I plan to put the non-woven fabric back in the evening to prevent heat loss. Considering how much energy the soil absorbed today and hopefully also tomorrow, I am quite confident it will work. I'll certainly report the results here.

Milan HP