In the Garden with Pat Rubin

Bee garden writer Pat Rubin writes about everything that grows, from flowers and trees to vegetables and lawns. Pat volunteered for several years as a Placer County Master Gardener and has written about gardening for many national and regional publications. In addition to gardening, she spends time raising and showing miniature horses and miniature donkeys.

In the Garden will include news, events, advice and other gardening tidbits. Pat will also answer reader questions.

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April 1, 2008

Leggy seedlings

I have to admit that, despite my best advice and knowing better, I have leggy seedlings.

The zinnias and cosmos are stringy. The lettuce seedlings are floppy. The tomatoes are a bit tall, but remain strong.

I've tried my best to get them outside for some sunshine and fresh air whenever the weather is cooperative. Trouble is, I'm at work all day, and don't want to risk moving them outdoors too soon or for too long, or risking the weather turning chilly while I'm gone. So the only time I have to harden off my seedlings is weekends and evenings (thanks to daylight savings time).

Still, I think all will be OK. I've been rubbing my hand across the tops of the seedlings several times each evening to help them develop strong stems, and it's working. I put them outside on the sunny deck whenever I'm around to watch them, and I'm sure they'll eventually make their way into the garden and grow into fine, healthy and tasty vegetable plants.

I'm counting on it.

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