Something about coal leaves a different kind of finish on the metal, have you noticed that? It's not just the heat. My first proper project was a simple hook for a fence post, done in a coal forge. Years later, that hook still has a soft, almost stippled texture to the steel where the fire touched it. Gas work from the same time looks cleaner, maybe, but also kind of sterile. That coal piece just looks and feels like it was made by a person.

Tbh I always start seeds way earlier than the packet says, like a full month extra. That buffer saves so much stress for event dates.