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Dilemma about baggie method: Poke holes before to use or after to open

Posted: Sat Sep 12, 2020 1:51 pm
by yonnoy
Hello, I am confused about when poke holes in the base of containers when I use baggie method. Some people say to poke holes after opening the bags, and other people say to poke holes before using the bags.

What is the best moment to poke holes in the base of containers in baggie method, how many and how big (in mm)?

I suppose that I need to enlarge the holes after open it.

Re: Dilemma about baggie method: Poke holes before to use or after to open

Posted: Sat Sep 12, 2020 2:56 pm
by esp_imaging
The 2 main purposes of the baggie method are to excluding fungi and dangerous organisms once a (semi) sterile germinating and growing environment had been established, and to maintain a high humidity level.

Poking holes in the bags before use therefore seems totally pointless.

It usually doesn't seem to matter whether the removal from the bag is done suddenly by totally removing the bag or more gradually by first poking holes (or partially removing a lid for those people who use plastic containers). Just remember that the pots will need watering, possibly quite often, once no longer sealed.

Re: Dilemma about baggie method: Poke holes before to use or after to open

Posted: Fri Sep 18, 2020 11:55 am
by RichR
I've never had a problem with just opening the bag and taking the pot out. There is no benefit that I can see to gradually opening the bag.

Re: Dilemma about baggie method: Poke holes before to use or after to open

Posted: Fri Sep 18, 2020 3:27 pm
by samhain
The holes need to be in the container prior. Condensation will leave you with plenty of water outside the container. Big enough for water to travel through, small enough to still be a container.