I started some tomato seeds in cells about 6-8 days ago and have had a pretty good germination rate. The problem is that I can't figure out why the purple stems and undersides. The soil is from my prepared garden bed, purchased from the local lumber company as bulk composted garden soil and I amended with chicken manure, earthworm castings, and bonemeal. I should have most of the NPK's where they need to be and the soil temp is 71 degrees. Is this something you've experienced before? All googling leads to cold soil, poor light (plants are currently about 6" from an admittedly poor light setup), or phosphorus deficiency.

They'll be fine. Don't worry about it.

Mine always look like that. I think it's just what they look like when they are seedlings. You will be just fine.

I will say that in the beginning a seeding mixture is basically very light soil, and doesn't have a lot of fertilizer in it. Primarily you need warmth to germinate, and then light for 14 hours a day. Those are the two key elements. You don't say what zone you are in? In my area it's a bit late to be starting tomatoes from seeds.

Kammy I'm right on the line between 8b and 9 in Louisiana. The maturity dates on these Rutgers should give me a pretty good fall crop, although I've never done fall tomatoes. I got nervous because I've never started from seed and all of the googling I've done suggests doom and gloom for purple stems.

Thanks for your response.