Sprouts update

I don't like to post about the same topic twice in a row, but after putting the sunflower seeds onto the soil to sprout, I left for the weekend and the three days that they were meant to be growing underneath the heavy weights have already passed.

So it's time to remove the weights and see what's going on. In the Dr. Mercola video they show ceramic tiles being used, and paving stones being placed on top as weights. The video doesn't explain why the weights are needed or what the properties of the "flat objects" used to cover should be, but I'll soon reveal the details I've learned...

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I didn't have anything that was the correct size so I had to improvise with cement board (used as backing for surfaces that will be tiled) and paint cans as weights.

I'm not sure that my soil was wet enough, as I would have expected a little more growth after three days, but I did learn that:

1. The weight is required to keep the seeds all in contact with the soil, and a paint can might not be heavy enough
2. The flat object needs to be smooth or seeds will stick to it. The cement board doesn't absorb water but has a rough finish, and several seeds were grabbing.

Still, lots of rooting going on:

I've watered a bit more and placed the seeds under lights. I do not have a window sill large enough for a 10x20" (25 x 50cm) tray, so lights it is until it's warm enough for outdoor growing.

I only did enough seed for 1/2 tray which makes it easier to fit under the lights.

I also decided to cover the tray with some plexiglass to help keep things moist.

I'll leave it on there until the seedlings almost touch it.

How many days until I can start harvesting I wonder?

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