The Gardener’s Guide To Seed Starting

A seed starting soil is crucial. Using soil from your garden can introduce diseases to your seedlings. Standard garden soil, even if it is fresh from the bag, will not help either. Seed starting soil has all of the necessary nutrients that your seeds will benefit from. We recommend Miracle Gro’s Seed Starting Potting Mix for best results.

Distribute the soil into the biodegradable containers. Afterwards, put three to five seeds in each container. Planting more than one of the same seed is important, as it is the best way to guarantee that you will have at least one strong sprout. You may want to label your containers during this step.

Once the seeds have been placed you will add a very thin layer of soil over them. The seeds should be buried no more than ¼ inch deep. If too much soil is used the seeds will either suffocate or be unable to break through that barrier when they grow. When all the seeds have been covered with soil you can place your containers in a planting tray. The planting tray will benefit you in two ways. Firstly, it will catch any excess water and be a good indicator of how much you are watering. Secondly, it will allow you to utilize a clear plastic lid to cover the tray. Whatever is used to cover the tray will need air holes to prevent mold growth. A cover will essentially act as a greenhouse, keeping in all the warmth, moisture, and humidity that your seeds will appreciate.