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Location

Message

Date Posted

Santa Cruz, CA

This has never happened to me. I sprouted my seeds and all came up nicely except one. When it came out of the seed shell the cot leaves were stuck together. I waited a day or so to see what it would do and the cots still didn't open. I tried prying the two leaves apart but they are really stuck. What should I do?

4/22/2009 1:47:14 AM

Long Island,New York

razor blade

4/22/2009 6:01:28 AM

Jericho Vermont

I have done surgery before. There is a thin film that envelopes the cot leaves that keeps them closed.Some seeds just don't seem to have the stored energy enough to break through this before it drys and hardens.
John

4/22/2009 6:29:56 AM

Santa Cruz, CA

I guess I will try operating after work today. Any parts I should be careful to avoid? The leaves seem almost glued together. I'm afraid I will cut the first true leaf if it's in there. I will keep you posted....

4/22/2009 11:40:43 AM

Corralitos, CA

One of my seeds did this to. I just used a razor and it opened up nicely. A little deformed though but is in the ground now and doing great.

4/22/2009 11:54:24 AM

Salinas, Ca

I think the razor blade sounds like the only option.

Why don't you start another diary and show us some before and after pictures?

4/22/2009 12:00:20 PM

sometimes "spritzing" (spray bottle) the cots a few times makes the seperation easier

4/22/2009 12:29:14 PM

Santa Cruz, CA

Thanks everyone. The operation was a success. The first true leaf was in there and looks healthy. The cots are pretty ratty looking now and one is barely hanging on. Should I cut it off or just wait and see what it does?

4/22/2009 3:52:55 PM

Jericho Vermont

I would wait and see. Any energy that the new seedling can get is good. Even a deformed or half cot helps to get the plant to the next level. If you see any issues though such as a rotten spot I would remove it.
John

4/23/2009 6:03:46 AM

Santa Cruz, CA

Now the first true leaf looks deformed and I don't think it's my operating technique. Should I pass this seed up or give it a little more time?

4/23/2009 10:47:34 PM

Owensboro, Ky.

More time!!! Peace, Wayne

4/26/2009 2:14:34 AM