Sowing Seeds at Focus

Sowing seeds in the garden

Printable Version

Good soil preparation is important and the soil should be dug to a depth of not less than 23cm (9ins). This can be carried out in the Autumn and Winter or directly in advance of sowing in the Spring - but the earlier the better.

It is never possible to eliminate all weeds during preparation and new weeds will grow alongside the seedlings. Sow a 15cm (6in) long row of seed to help identify the plant seedlings so that the weed seedlings can be carefully removed.

Small seed can be evenly scattered over the surface and then lightly raked in. Larger seed can be sown in shallow trenches up to 5mm (1/4in) deep with the seed evenly spaced and finally covered gently raking the soil over them. Label later for identification.

With both methods, some spacing out of the seedlings may be required to give each plant room to develop fully.

Sowing seeds under protection

Protection

The use of a propagator to control the growing environment will be of value in raising plants from seed, and by its use the range of seeds sown can be extended.

Tender plants, in particular half-hardy annuals used for Summer display, will require some protection. This can take the form of a windowsill, greenhouse, garden frame, conservatory or propagator. The more protection the greater the success of growing and the greater the range of plants it is possible to grow.

Seed sowing

Plant requirements are normally shown on the seed packet and should be followed closely. Normally the seed will be sown into a seed tray, or in the case of small amounts of seed, into small pots. Large seeds such as sweet peas and runner beans should be sown individually into single pots. Label all sowings.

Seed trays and pots must contain a good quality pre-moistened seed sowing compost.

Once the seed is sown, small seed is normally just firmed into the surface of the compost or lightly covered with seed sowing compost and lightly firmed. Make sure the seed is evenly distributed across the surface of the compost.

Shading of all newly sown seed helps until the first signs of growth are detected and new seedlings must also be protected from strong sunlight.

Watering

Water carefully - the best method is always 'little and often'.

Using a watering can with a long spout to slow down the water flow and fitting a watering can with a fine rose will prevent damage and ensure even distribution of the water.

Growing on

Once the seedlings are large enough to handle, replant them, to give more space, into trays or pots and continue to protect. Handle by the leaves only and not the stems. Do not plant them out in their final growing position in the garden until all fear of Spring frost has passed.

Tools Required: