Mad Growth

It appears a fine balance has finally been established. Every time I say this, some sort of a distaster occurs shortly after. For now, things are going exceedingly well. Only three deaths over last week. About a dozen new seedlings moved from the brown patch into more permanent White and also now Clear patches. Clear patch is made from 3" acrylic clear tubes.

I was keeping conditions unchanged over last 7-10 days with regards to the light (about 8" above tops), moisture (water when meter falls into 1), the air (two fans on Low, one on the same timer as the light), and the temperature (72-74F during day, 68-70 during night).

Current leader is #31, but there are a few new contenders in making. Old leader #4 recovered almost completely now, but it's not in a position to compete with the younger seedlings.

#31 December 16, 2012. 1 month old.

For comparison, here is the #4:

#4 December 16, 2012. 1 month and 3 weeks old.

From the new seedlings, #39 is a curious one. It was one of several I did a "surgery" two weeks ago. In  the process of moving from the brown cups into the PVC, I completely removed the root from the soil and washed it with water. Apparently the seedling did not mind this invasive procedure at all. Here is a repeat of the picture I did on December 1:

#39 December 1, 2012. One week and 3 days.

And what it looks like now:

#39 December 16, 2012. 3 weeks old.

There are also many more very strong seedlings in the 30 range, a few decent ones in 40 range, and none in 50. Then there are a few showing some promise in 60 range. 70 and above are still in the brown patch.

Finally, #15 is showing how the purple fungus is retreating. Note that the purple spots that were covering pretty much all needles are becoming smaller, while the new needles remain mostly green: