First chillis are up

[Martin H]

Several of my (tiny) seedlings don't seem to be able to throw off the seedcase. They look like tiny drumsticks popping out of the compost.

Anyone know what causes this or how to cure it?

[Scarlet]

Old seeds, hard or very dry seed covering. If you can (very lady like) spit on your fingers and gently rub on the seed case every time you pass your plants tomorrow., it should soften them enough that they come off eventually....Be very gentle you don't want to snap the heads off

[Scarlet]

Stop showing off Bacchus...I'm really jealous!

[libbyloulou]

Several of my (tiny) seedlings don't seem to be able to throw off the seedcase. They look like tiny drumsticks popping out of the compost.

Anyone know what causes this or how to cure it?

Tr to keep the seed shell damp, then the growing/opening cotyledons can discard it, (hopefully).

[Kristen]

Several of my (tiny) seedlings don't seem to be able to throw off the seedcase. They look like tiny drumsticks popping out of the compost.

Anyone know what causes this or how to cure it?

I have a misting bottle nearby, in case anything needs misting , and use that to soften any retained seed case shells.

[Martin H]

Thanks all. I think maybe this is a downside to watering from below and keeping the compost surface on the dry side. I'll remember next time and do some moistening on this batch.

[Scarlet]

I have a misting bottle nearby, in case anything needs misting , and use that to soften any retained seed case shells.

That's more lady like perhaps I need to get myself a misting bottle!

[Martin H]

Perhaps I need to get myself a misting bottle!

Mine used to contain kitchen worktop cleaner, I rescued it when it was about to be recycled by Mrs H.