When to take tomato seedlings off heat mat？
The timing for taking tomato seedlings off a heat mat depends on the specific stage of growth and the environmental conditions in your area. Here are some general guidelines:
- Germination period: Tomato seeds typically take 5 to 10 days to germinate. Once most of the seeds have sprouted and you see healthy seedlings with true leaves (not just the initial cotyledons), you can consider removing them from the heat mat.
- Early growth: After germination, tomato seedlings will continue to grow for a few weeks. You can keep them on the heat mat until they are about 2-3 inches tall and have developed a strong root system.
- Temperature and weather conditions: If you are starting your tomato seedlings indoors during colder months or in a cooler climate, you may want to keep them on the heat mat for a bit longer. On the other hand, if the weather outside is warm and the room where the seedlings are placed maintains a temperature around 70°F (21°C) or higher, you can consider removing them from the heat mat sooner.
- Gradual adjustment: When you decide to remove the seedlings from the heat mat, do it gradually. Turn off the heat mat for a few hours during the day and monitor the seedlings' response. If they seem to be doing well and not showing signs of stress, you can keep the heat mat off during the daytime. Continue to monitor the temperature in the room to ensure it stays within a suitable range for tomato seedlings.
