Watering Seedlings: Bottom-Watering vs. Misting

Misting only wets the surface, encouraging shallow roots and spindly growth. Bottom-watering draws moisture upward, promoting deep, strong roots.

Best Practice

1. Set pots in a tray; add water to the tray.
2. Allow soil to wick up moisture for ~4 hours.
3. Dump excess water; never let pots sit in standing water.

Alternatively, water slowly from the top until water drains out the bottom, but this risks disturbing young roots. Bottom-watering is preferred for seedlings in peat pots or cells.