Q. What conditions are necessary for germinating my pepper and tomato seeds? How long will it take?
A. Peppers, tomatoes, and eggplant like the soil temperatures to be at
least 75 degrees Fahrenheit, and they will germinate much faster in the low to mid-80’s. Tomatoes can germinate in less than a week under ideal conditions, and peppers are a little slower. Don’t get them too hot, however, or you’ll lose more than you want to.
The thing that most often causes peppers, tomatoes, and other seeds to take a long time germinating is too-cold temperatures.
Moisture is also important, but don’t leave them in standing water or you’ll drown them.
Store your seeds in a cool, dark, and dry place. Seed will lose its viability very fast in warm, and especially humid conditions. Cool and dry are essential for long-term storage of your seeds.
Jim Kennard
