Transplanting

This week we have done a ton of transplants. To do that, the first true leaves called cotyledons are taken off of the stem and the plant is buried in soil up to the next leaves. Not all plants can be done this way but peppers, tomatoes and cucumbers can. There are probably more, but those are the ones I know of for sure right now. I have heard of old-timers who do it with every transplant no matter what it is.
We have been using a soil less mix of 2 parts sawdust, 1 part sand, and 1/2 part pearlite. This makes a nice mix that drains well and yet doesn't dry out quickly. This mix keeps disease and bugs at bay too. The plants seem to love it as long as we are making sure they are getting their Mittleider nutrients. Check them out HERE.
  We also put a pre-plant mixture into the potting soil which consists of 20 cups gypsum, 1 cup epsom salts and 1/4 cup borax.  The plants do really well with these nutrients.
  Now that I have posted this blog, I am off to the greenhouse to transplant more tomatoes and eggplant! Have a happy healthy day!
Elisa