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West Paris Me.

I have decided to start some seeds to test my grow light set up. Things with the lights have gone well. I decided that I wanted to have a way to see the roots while the plants were growing. So I cut off the tops from the bottles, poked holes in the bottom and instant pot. What I found interesting is the difference between similar looking seedlings. They can have very different root systems, one was significantly better than the others.
I think that instead of using black 1 gallon pots, I will divide and then duct tape together pots made from clear 2 liter soda bottles. This may help me to better choose which seedlings are best to put in the patch.

2/23/2015 4:50:11 PM

Colorado

You may get some algae inside the clear area but not so bad as to block the view. It will let you know if youre starting to get root bound. You want the roots big enough to hold soil together but not to circle around which is too root bound for ideal plant momentum

2/23/2015 5:12:06 PM

West Paris Me.

I have often thought that they plants were ready to set out only to have the soil fall away and quite likely damage roots. Another problem that I might be able to avoid.

2/23/2015 7:09:38 PM

Colorado

dried root ball holds together much better than moist

2/23/2015 11:28:16 PM

West Paris Me.

Thanks Joe

2/24/2015 10:51:31 AM

http://www.bigpumpkins.com/Diary/DiaryViewOne.asp?eid=228728

Here is something you might want to look at.You can also tape a piece of plywood(slightly larger) as the new bottom and cut the tape after you put it into the hole.

2/24/2015 2:05:07 PM

West Paris Me.

That's awesome

2/24/2015 4:19:54 PM