Step by Step:
"Thinning" is the process of removing excess seedlings from within a row, to allow those remaining to grow better. In our Follow Us, advise on the total number that should remain after the first (and, if necessary, second) thinning is included. In our Crop Selector, the total number that should be present in a row is also shown. Rates of germination will often exceed the ideal number of plants in a row, so - however hard it may be(!) - this is a necessary process to get the most from your planter.
- Use a plant label to gently dig below and ease up the excess seedling from the row. Some jiggling and teasing may be required to do this cleanly!
- Grasp firmly and pull free, taking care the preserve as much of the root as possible. Gently shake to remove any clinging, excess soil.
- If you can, remove those which have formed tight clumps or that have germinated out-of-line, first.
- Remove as needed to reach the new, required figure.