Seeds not sprouting – please see additional details.

Question

Indoors, I planted various perennial seeds (Columbine, Carnation and Gaillardia) about 21-30 days ago using small seed-starter greenhouses with grow lights. For 2 weeks I left the clear plastic tops on the greenhouses and the balance of the time removed the tops. I also kept the starter soil watered lightly using a spray bottle. I positioned the grow lights about 6-7 inches above the starter trays. None of the seeds have started to sprout yet and these species of perennials say they should sprout in 7-14 days (carnation and gaillardia) and 22-30 days (columbine). Please advise if I am doing something wrong or need to do something different. Thank You, Steve B.

Answer 1

Generally, after planting the seeds and watering, the tops are put in place and not removed until the seedlings emerge. So you could recover and see if that helps. Do not add more water till the seedlings emerge and the soil dries a bit.

Were the seeds purchased from a reputable dealer? They may not be viable.

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/dianthus/growing-carnations.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/columbine/columbine-flower.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/blanket-flower/growing-blanket-flowers.htm