Race to the Clouds -
Yes, the Mammoth variety seems to have taken very well and most seedlings seem to be vigorous. Both the Sumatra and Argentine have several viable seedlings. The Red Leaf plants are struggling. They appear weak and spindly... much like me. <sigh>

Fertilizer Rate –
I used Miracle Grow liquid fertilizer for the initial pellet hydration at about ¼ teaspoon per quart. I will increase the rate by ~50% on the next feeding, and then an additional ~33% for all weekly feedings. That gives me an approximate rate of ½ tsp. per quart, or 1 1/3 tbsp. per gallon for regular diet. Alternatively, I may just dump the jug in the middle of the plot and hope for rain.

Another consideration is the quality of water used in the propagation phase. As I understand it, tomacco will not tolerate chlorine until it is established. The same goes for all the nightshades, I guess. I used filtered water – nothing special.

Question: Does anyone have a recommendation for tomato fertilizer? There is a similarity in nutrient requirements.

Hardening Off –
Based on both the material you provided in the info post and some additional reading, I may be jumping the gun on setting the seedlings outdoors. They are in a protected cove that receives only indirect sunlight, but they are still subject to wind, temperature swings, and other forms of outdoor mayhem. The jury is still out on the quality of that decision.

Next Phase –
I have some time to decide how to transplant the seedlings. I think stepping them up from pods to peat pots may be a good idea. That will allow some measure of control over soil, water, and nutrients. Equally important, it will allow for full root development. I have an idea that may be more than a few critters lurking in the soil here.

I think I’ll be lucky to get two or three specimen plants from each variety. My money is on the Mammoths for survival… unless there’s a sudden new ice age.