Preparing Your Seedlings

When we are asked, “Why are my seeds not germinating?” we consider a number of factors. Seeds are living organisms in as much as a certain percent of them will germinate in the correct conditions and produce seedlings, which, in the correct conditions, will produce plants and eventually more seeds. Before we put out our seeds for sale, we determine if the germination rate meets our high standards. We also test each and every seed lot annually (both in our lab and in field) to ensure that the germination rate remains higher than 80%.

Choose the Right Moment

Horticulturists in greenhouses and nurseries will testify to it: don’t be too eager to plant!

It is important to know when is the right time for each type of seedling. Otherwise, an undesirable scenario may occur. As a result, the plant experiences a shock that considerably slows down its development. Indeed, bad weather can cause the plant to rot or become vulnerable to undesirable diseases and insects.

Prepare your Seedlings in a Few Steps

Before planting seeds directly outside, you should refer to the information on their respective packet. When it comes to preparing seedlings, here are some steps to consider:

1. Fill your clean containers with potting soil that is specifically designed for planting and compact slightly. A good soil must be porous and light to maintain the moisture content and allow small roots to expand. It generally consists of peat, perlite and / or vermiculite, as well as sand.

2. Moisten the soil without soaking it.

3. Arrange the seeds on the potting soil without clamping them together too much.

4. Slightly cover the seeds with potting soil. Consult the seed light requirements indicated on the packet. The distance between the seed and the soil surface depends on it.

5. Until the first sprouts come out of the ground, cover with a dome such a plastic lid with holes. When the first sprouts come out of the ground, remove the dome.

6. Water gently. Before you use drip irrigation to your advantage, use a spray bottle to water your seedlings. The idea is to avoid digging seeds because of water pressure. Even though they have been watered, they could dry out under the direct sun.

If you have to transplant your seedlings, that is, to transplant them into a larger pot, make sure to keep the heap of soil around the roots called “clump” in the jargon of gardening.

Give the Right Amount of Lighting and Ventilation

At the germination stage, our seedlings do not need a high exposure of light. You should rather make sure they have enough moisture and constant heat. The holed plastic dome makes it possible to control these important factors to germination. Do not to place it in full sun. Otherwise, young sprouts stifle!

At the first signs of spry leaves, the dome can be removed. Consequently, it is important to position the young sprouts to more light, that is, the sunniest place in your house. With a good dose of sunlight, your seedlings will be stronger and of a more lively green. In order to ensure that they grow straight, it is advisable to rotate from a quarter turn once or twice a week.

Note that it is not necessary to add fertiliser to your seedlings, but you need to prepare the soil for a good germination. Seeds have everything they need to emancipate themselves during the first weeks!