| Growing plants from seeds is a very satisfying | | | | the potting mix with Benomyl fungicide solution at the |
| process because you combine soil, water, light, and | | | | strength given on the label directions. This will prevent |
| seeds to bring new plants into the world. Every type | | | | fungal diseases from forming. Let the excess water |
| of seed has different specific requirements in terms of | | | | drain from the pots, trays, or flats, then lightly press |
| light, water, warmth, and fertilization, so it is important to | | | | down the soil to get rid of air pockets in the potting |
| read the directions for each seed packet before | | | | mix. |
| proceeding. But there are some commonalities with all | | | | Before sowing the seeds, check the individual seed |
| indoor seed germination projects. | | | | packets to see if there are special preparatory steps |
| Preparatory Steps | | | | you must take with the seeds. Some must be soaked |
| It's best if you have a work table available where you | | | | in water, and others may need to have the seed hull |
| can assemble all the materials you will need: | | | | nicked in order to germinate. The seed packet should |
| Clean plastic trays, pots, or peat trays | | | | tell you of any special preparations you must take |
| Potting mix or peat planting mix that is "soilless" | | | | before sowing the seeds. You may want to save |
| (available at nursery supply stores and greenhouses) | | | | some seeds out in case the original batch doesn't |
| Waterproof heating mat or cable if your seeds | | | | germinate. |
| require constant germination temperature. Most keep | | | | Some seeds are buried in little trenches, or in rows of |
| soil at a steady 72 degrees Fahrenheit, but there are | | | | small holes that you create in the soil. Space the seeds |
| some with adjustable thermostats | | | | apart as directed on the seed packet - usually an inch |
| Log book and waterproof labels (if you're growing | | | | is necessary between rows. Planting depth is usually |
| multiple types of seeds) | | | | one to two times the seed diameter. The tiniest seeds |
| Sowing the Seeds | | | | shouldn't be covered, and seeds that require light to |
| Fill the trays, pots, or flats to within 0.25 inches of the | | | | germinate should not be covered. They can be gently |
| rim. To moisten the soil, place it in a pan of water that's | | | | pressed into the surface of the potting mix. With |
| at room temperature until it is moist all the way through. | | | | warmth, sunlight, and moist (but not wet) conditions, |
| Many plant experts suggest at this point you re-soak | | | | your seeds should germinate into healthy seedlings! |