Beginner gardeners typically start with shoots or young plants, as seed-starting can be a hit-or-miss. Well, once you learn how to properly help your seeds reach the seedling stage, you won’t go back to buying plants!
Here’s all you need to know to get into seed-starting:
1 – Use New Seeds and Tools
Seeds are incredibly fragile. If you store the seeds in the wrong condition, they might die or rot. So, it’s best to plant the seeds right away.
Moreover, you don’t want to start the seeds in just any soil from your garden! Instead, it’s best to go for fresh planting mix, to ensure there are no parasites or bacteria.
Here’s the thing. You might get prompted to dry your own seeds or use an old mix, as it’s more economical. That said, not only might the seeds not germinate, but you’ll also risk infecting all the seedlings and the rest of your garden.
2 – Pre-Soak the Seeds
It can take days, if not weeks, for the seeds to germinate in the soil. Well, you can speed up the process by pre-soaking your seeds in a glass of water for as little as two hours.
This will soften the outer shell of the seeds, allowing them to germinate quickly. You can transfer the softened seeds into their pots after 12 hours, or wait until they germinate.
Just make sure you change the water every 12 hours and place the glass in a sunny area.
Hydrogen peroxide is also an exceptional liquid to soften the seeds, as well as prevent bacteria and fungus. You’ll need about eight parts water to one part hydrogen peroxide.
3 – Use Biodegradable Containers
Transplant shock is the failure of the seedling to develop a proper root when you move it to your garden. This can be a nightmare, as you’ll have done everything right while seed-starting, only to be hit with the dreadful transplant shock.
What if I told you there’s a sure way to prevent transplant shock? All you have to do is start the seeds in biodegradable containers.
This includes anything from toilet paper rolls, paper cups, and even eggshells. Once the seeds become seedlings, you’ll transplant the plant while it’s in the container.
Don’t worry, though. Over time, the container will break down into the soil. This way, you’ll be helping your seedlings while fertilizing your garden!
4 – Hydrate With Warm or Lukewarm Water
Seeds love moisture and warmth. In fact, cold water can slow germination and plant growth.
That’s why you must water your seeds with room-temperature or warm water. Additionally, you should water the seeds at night, or when the temperature is lower.
This prevents water loss through evaporation, keeping the soil moist longer. In turn, you’ll have a healthier seedling.
5 – Utilize Bottom Watering
Watering your plants from the bottom up might seem unconventional. Yet, it’s the ideal way to help your seedlings develop a healthy root system.
Bottom watering ensures the water reaches all layers of the soil, particularly the lower parts. After all, the roots are responsible for transporting water to all parts of the plant.
This watering method also encourages the root system to grow downward toward the moisture.
To correctly bottom water your potted seedlings, you should start with a pot with a drainage hole. Then, place this pot in a large container filled with water, allowing the water to seep into the soil.
6 – Invest in Light Sources
Plants feed on light. Naturally, seeds require plenty of light while growing into seedlings.
Typically, seeds need 14 to 16 hours of sunlight a day, with about a 10-hour resting period.
There’s nothing like natural sunlight. However, if you live in an area that doesn’t get much sunlight, grow lights will be your new best friends, mimicking natural light.
Growing up with a mom who filled her home (inside and out) with all sorts of plants, Lisa got her start in gardening at a young age. Living now on her own with a home and yard full of plants (including an indoor greenhouse), she shares all the gardening tips she’s gained over the years.