In the early spring, when light levels are still quite low and space is at a premium for raising seeds, many of us use a warm kitchen windowsill.

The only problem, using this method, is that the seeds tend to be drawn towards the window where the light is brighter.

The usual way of stopping them from growing to one side is to turn the pots each day but this can be tedious especially if you have a lot of seeds on the go and you do not forget to turn them. This can also cause the seedlings to become very leggy and weak.

One way to overcome this problem is to balance the light source. A simple light box will do this for you.

To construct a light box, all you will need are a few basic items.

A cardboard box, some aluminium cooking foil, some PVA glue and a pair of scissors or craft knife.

Measure the depth of your windowsill and use this measurement for the depth and height of your box by marking from a bottom edge. For example, your windowsill is 9 inches deep, measure 9 inches up from the bottom of the box and 9 inches along the side of the box. Draw a lines between the marks. Cut along these lines and you should end up with a triangle shape.

 

 

 

 

Coat the inside of the box with a thin layer of the PVA glue, and place the foil (shiny side out) inside the box.

Place your seed pots inside the box.

The light will be reflected off the shiny surface of the foil onto the back of the seedlings, allowing them to grow more evenly.

 

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Last updated 9 March, 2002
© copyright 1999, P. A. Owen