Seeds - Part 1: Sowing seeds

Seeds - Part 1: Sowing Seeds

Spring is when we do the bulk of our sowing at Fern Verrow. From flower seeds to vegetable crops, there is always something new to move into the greenhouse.

There are many varieties of seed out there, and they all have specific needs. Each seed variety has its own germination temperature and different requirements when it comes to sowing depth.

My rule of thumb is that you should sow your seeds 1.5 times the depth of its size. So a 2 cm seed would be planted at a depth of 3 cm. Often, seed packets come with sowing instructions on the back to guide you, but if they don't, then there are many books and, of course, the internet there too to help you.

Choosing the Right Tray

Sowing your seeds in module trays will ensure you'll end up with plants with a uniform size and so this is a great way to grow plants commercially and on a small scale. There are different types of module trays available depending on what type of seed you are sowing. I tend to use smaller, pointed modules for plants that have thin, delicate roots, such as onions, leeks and fennel.

For larger seeds, such as courgettes and squashes, bigger modules are recommended, but for the majority of your seeds, a 77 cell module tray should give you all the space that you require.

Another option is to use an open seed tray that hasn't been split into modules. If you only have a small space to grow your seedlings in, this can be more efficient, as you can grow more seedlings in one space and then prick them out and pot them on when they are big enough.

Using Potting Compost to Sow From

Buying a good quality potting compost from your garden centre will help your seeds to thrive. I use an organic potting compost made by a German company called Klasmann.

Fill your seed tray to just below the lip and then firm it down so that it lies flat. Firming your compost will ensure that your seedlings will have good anchorage and that the soil will support them as they grow.

Coir Pots and Plastic Trays

Coir pots are an excellent option when you are ready to pot on your seedlings, as they are sustainable and biodegradable. This means that you can plant them directly into the soil, without having to disturb the roots of your plant.

The coir does take a long time to break down though, so do be aware that you might find clumps of them in your soil if you don't remove them regularly.