Pepper Seedlings - Ask Extension
Every year my pepper seedlings' bottom leaves yellow and fall. It's more than the first two leaves. The tops continue to grow and are green. At time t...
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Pepper Seedlings #746712
Asked April 28, 2021, 9:26 AM EDT
Every year my pepper seedlings' bottom leaves yellow and fall. It's more than the first two leaves. The tops continue to grow and are green. At time to transplant the seedlings look good and healthy. I keep the lights (T5) 12 inches above. I am using Pro Com Growing Mix. Water by hand.
Someone suggested that there isn't enough nitrogen. I thought growing mix has enough NPK and I don't want to burn them by adding more.
Iron County Michigan
Expert Response
Hi Maureen, thanks for the question.
Some quick observations, It may be the lighting but the soil looks a little on the dry side, inadequate (or inconsistent) soil moisture can lead to yellowing of lower leaves since it can't uptake nutrients without adequate water. Overwatering can also cause this issue (roots shut down). Soil moisture needs to be fairly consistent, wrung out sponge wet. Peat pots can dry out quickly. The lamps at 12 inches above the leaves is high. Two inches is better but you may need more lights. Nitrogen deficiency can also cause yellowing (same as low water). If your mix has nutrients you are right to be cautious.
I hope this helps.
