My homebrewing might have to take a break for a few weeks as I’ve pressed my heat mat into service to create a warm environment for germinating seeds that like a bit of heat, such as chilli peppers and tomatoes. Those often cite a range from 20-22°C. I’ve still managed to germinate tomatoes inside, even though the house is normally cooler than that but, this year, I’ve set up a large propagator with the heat mat underneath and water inside.

The heat mat keeps the water to about 21°C and then I can put plastic containers in that with compost or small pots. No sign of the peppers yet but the tomatoes are just beginning to show. I’m interested to see if it gives them a stronger start but time will tell.