The Tobacco Plant Project

[mrtr33]

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.

After much thought about my specific situation, I've decided not to fertilize the peat pods. My primary concern is burning these plants up. I've read in other places that it's best these tobacco seeds be brought up in direct sunlight. I'm worried that their early life may be hindered in the sun with the addition of a fertilizer.

Good call on the water - that makes sense to me.

Also, I'm not going to start hardening these plants for a few more weeks. Ideally, I won't transplant until they are clearly individual seedlings.

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

I do, but I can't recall what it is. It's another one of those slow-release, in-ground fertilizers (as opposed to a fertilizer for potted plants). I'll add it to the beds once I get those in place. Supposedly, it is something I only have to add once, then I can forget about it. I'll find out what the name of the stuff is, and post it.

mrtr33 - I noticed your Sumatra had a bit of mold on the seeds and in the pellets. I had a few with the same condition. The other varieties are not affected. It appears that it could be a moldy batch of seed from the supplier. Crud.

Yeah, the Sumatra did. I guess I was thinking it was a result of the sunlight hitting the covered tray, and the condensation was too much, and mold formed. I never thought the seeds themselves could be moldy. I've taken the trays off, and don't see any more mold.

I have a few more sprouting up. I'm probably only going to keep a few of the Black Mammoth's, and give the rest to the local garden store that's helped me so much with little tips and advice in getting me started.

I'll post pics and an update on my growing experiences (what isn't posted here) a bit later on.