[Thephoenix572]

Currently got some germinating in moist compost in dark tied bag. Checked them today and they are sprouting nicely. My question is it the root that I can see or the growth?

[mumofstig]

the white root grows first 

[Thephoenix572]

When I plant them, which will be this weekend can they be started off in pots in an unheated greenhouse?

[sowitgrowit]

When I plant them, which will be this weekend can they be started off in pots in an unheated greenhouse?

Go for it! They are only a few weeks away (he says) from being able to be sown directly. Most folks start them around now indoors (greenhouse), moving them outside after a period of hardening off (taking them out during the day and bringing back in at night to get them gradually used to the temperature, cool wind etc outside).

[cricketwidow]

Mine are out going really well as I am in Cornwall don't need to worry too much about frost now.

[Thephoenix572]

Greenhouse it is then

[JohnB47]

Currently got some germinating in moist compost in dark tied bag. Checked them today and they are sprouting nicely. My question is it the root that I can see or the growth?

Why in a dark bag? I planted some around 10 days ago in pots and have kept them indoors - nothing showing yet. My germination this year has been very bad. Does anyone have some good basic advice - I'm thinking I need to start learning all over again about germination.

[Christine]

I suspect that your germination problem may well lie with the weather as it has been wet, grey, dull and cool. Not the ideal conditions for anything to germinate. Even in the house, there will be a lack of the "right sort of light" due to the dull conditions (if you have seen regular sun then you are one lucky person).

[sowitgrowit]

My understanding is that germination needs no light, just warmth and moisture (not too wet).

Some things (brassicas etc) don't even need much warmth, or much artificial warmth at least.

[sunshineband]

My understanding is that germination needs no light, just warmth and moisture (not too wet).

Some things (brassicas etc) don't even need much warmth, or much artificial warmth at least.

Some seeds do need light for germination, some do need dark... that is why the information on the back of seed packets is crucial

Beans are happy with or without light, but do need to be warmer than the soil is outside still

Water of course is vital 

[JohnB47]

My understanding is that germination needs no light, just warmth and moisture (not too wet).

Some things (brassicas etc) don't even need much warmth, or much artificial warmth at least.

Hmmm, tell that to my brussel sprouts. 

[sowitgrowit]

My understanding is that germination needs no light, just warmth and moisture (not too wet).

Some things (brassicas etc) don't even need much warmth, or much artificial warmth at least.

Hmmm, tell that to my brussel sprouts. 

I'm willing to be wrong! It's just what I understand to be the case; I'm not especially experienced!