Raising Plants from Seeds

To watch a plant grow from its seed is the most amazing thing for an amateur gardener. It is actually the most simple and economical way of developing new plants. But still every seed sown can’t become a plant, because of the minor mistakes made as a beginner.

One can overcome this issue and enjoy the beauty of germinating seeds and lovely growing greens by following few basic planting steps and tips.

Raising new plants from the seeds is of course a better idea to get started in your garden but one needs to have an idea on the following in order to get things going better.

Know the Plant in the Seed:

Even before sowing the seeds one should know about the plant in the seed and its growth requirements.

Reason: The climatic conditions, plant variety and the timing become crucial for seed germination. Few plants can do well in cold and few can hold back till the spring.

Tip: Therefore it is pretty necessary to carefully read the instructions on the seed packet even before getting started.  Simply follow the directions given on the packet to know the growth requirements of the plant.

Enriching the Soil:

After deciding the type of plants you wish to grow, collect the seeds, and prepare the soil.

Enrich the soil by adding seed compost, fertilizers and other nutrients that may include Nitrogen, Phosphorous, and Potassium, to make it more balanced and fertile.  

Reason: A rich soil prepared on the basis of plant growth requirements can aid in easy seed germination and also hold the life of the plant well. 

Tip: Prepare the soil such that it supports optimum growth conditions as most of the plants can do well in the optimum ranges. Also make use of Seed starting medium along with the regular potting soil.

Prepare the Plot for Sowing:

The most crucial step in the entire process is to prepare a perfect plot to sow seeds, using the enriched soil. Such a plot for the seeds can be set right in the garden or in the containers. 

Reason: Few seeds can be directly sown in the garden soils but few plants require a container growth in the initial stages and can later be transplanted into the garden sites.

Tip 1: In order to prepare a perfect plot in the garden site, dig in the ground with enriched soil deeply, rake it smooth, and make it even. For a container, the enriched soil should be sieved thoroughly and then dispersed evenly.

Tip 2: Don’t forget to keep the soil moist by irrigating it with enough water before, and after sowing and until it germinates. Use a watering can with a well fitted hose to sprinkle enough water.

Containers:

They can include small pots and seed trays. One can also make use of cardboard flats, yogurt cups or even egg cartons, in order to develop seedlings.

With everything set, it is now time to sow your seeds. As said earlier, follow the directions on the packet. But do remember,

  • Bigger the size of the seed, deeper it should be sown. Some small seeds can be sprinkled directly in the soil, whereas few should be scattered evenly, and then covered up with a fine layer of soil.

Forgetting is human nature, so mark your containers. Observe the germinating seeds and transfer your seedlings once the true leaves appear.