Growing plants from seeds is a rewarding process, but to ensure a strong and healthy start, it’s important to use the right compost, watering techniques, and growing conditions.
Follow our step-by-step guide to give your seeds the best chance of thriving.
Step 1: Choosing the Right Seeds
Before sowing, it’s essential to select vegetable or flower seeds that are suitable for the current season and growing conditions. Some plants thrive in specific temperatures and light levels, so check the seed packet for guidance on the best sowing times.
Indoor vs Outdoor Sowing
You also need to figure out whether you need to sow the seeds indoors before planting or out if you can sow directly outdoors - this should be written on the seed packet.
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Indoor Sowing: Ideal for seeds that require a warm, controlled environment to germinate, such as tomatoes, peppers, and herbs. Using seed trays or propagators indoors extends the growing season and gives seedlings a strong start before they are transplanted outside.
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Outdoor Sowing: Suitable for hardy plants that can tolerate cooler conditions, such as carrots, lettuce, and radishes. Outdoor sowing requires well-prepared soil and the right weather conditions to ensure germination.
Step 2: Choosing the Right Compost For Seedlings
Selecting the correct seed compost is crucial, as seeds have different nutrient requirements than established plants. Here are your best options:
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Seed compost: Specifically formulated for seedlings, it is low in nutrients to prevent excessive growth before roots are established. Try Levington Seed Cutting Peat Free Compost or Levington Peat Free + John Innes Seed Compost.
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Multi-purpose compost with amendments: If you don’t have seed compost, mix a high-quality multi-purpose compost with vermiculite or horticultural sand. These amendments improve drainage and aeration while retaining moisture.
Why Use Vermiculite?
Vermiculite acts as a reservoir for nutrients, holding onto them and slowly releasing them to the plant when needed. This improves seedling health and prevents overfeeding.
Step 3: Preparing Your Seed Tray
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Moisten the compost: Before sowing, lightly water the compost to prevent seeds from being displaced after planting.
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Fill your seed tray or pots: Use the prepared compost mix, ensuring it is evenly spread and not overly compacted.
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Sow the seeds sparingly: This makes it easier to thin out and transplant seedlings later on.
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Water using a spray bottle: A gentle misting prevents overwatering and avoids introducing bacteria that may be present in watering cans.
We have a fantastic selection of propagation accessories in-store and online!
Step 4: Planting Your Seeds
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Planting depth: As a general rule, seeds should be sown at a depth twice the size of the seed. Although, some seeds need more light to germinate and need to be shown shallower.
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Small seeds: Lightly press them into the soil’s surface without burying them deeply.
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Larger seeds: Create small holes and plant them accordingly.
Step 5: Creating the Ideal Germination Environment
- Cover the tray: Use a propagator lid or a sheet of newspaper to maintain warmth and humidity.
- Use a heated propagator: For heat-loving plants like peppers, a heated propagator provides the consistent warmth needed for successful germination.
- Place your seeds in a sunny spot: Make use of sunny windowsills by placing your seeds there for faster germination.
- Label your seeds: Write down the variety and the date sown on plant labels to avoid mix-ups when transplanting.
Step 6: Transplanting Seedlings
After 4-6 weeks, your seedlings should develop their second set of leaves. This indicates they are strong enough to be moved into individual pots.
How to Transplant Seedlings Safely:
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Gently lift the seedlings by holding the lower leaves (not the stem) to avoid damage.
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Prepare a small pot with potting compost and create a hole for the seedling.
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Place the seedling into the hole and gently firm the soil around the roots.
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Water well to help establish the plant in its new environment.
Step 7: Continue Growing and Enjoy Your Plants!
As your plants continue to grow, ensure they receive enough light, water, and nutrients. Using an all-purpose plant food can give them an extra boost!
Whether you’re starting indoors or sowing directly outside, patience and care will help your plants flourish. If you need any further advice or supplies, visit us in-store— our team is always happy to help. Happy growing!