Get Growing Again - Spring Seed Germination Tips
Whilst youd be forgiven for not believing it looking at the weather outside “ spring is just around the corner.
For all you keen gardeners, this means its time to start germinating seeds, ready for planting out when the warmer weather arrives.
Growing plants from seed is one of the most rewarding aspects of gardening, but it isnt always easy. Make sure you give your plants the best possible start in life by following our top tips:
Start with the right seeds
Starting with good quality seeds will make a real difference in terms of both the percentage that successfully germinate, and the quality of the plants you produce.
Seeds should be less than 2 years old, and if they arent taken from last years crop, you should source from a reputable supplier.
At Keen Gardener, youll find a wide range of high quality seeds, including flowers, wildflowers, herbs, fruits and veg “ all designed to flourish in UK growing conditions.
Plant at the right time
Different seeds take different amounts of time to germinate “ ranging from a few days, to several weeks. Before you plant your seeds, check the seed packet (or look online), to check how long they take, and when you need to be planting them.
When looking at germination times, its important to remember that this is an average, so allow for a few days either side.
Choose the right growing medium
Seeds germinate better in the right growing medium. Specialist seed-starting compost will help to promote germination and protect your seedlings from common fungi and bacteria in the soil.
Get the right containers
The right seed trays will make your germination efforts much easier. For the majority of seeds, the best containers will be 2 “ 3 deep, with drainage holes in the bottom.
Seeds need to be planted at the right depth. Too shallow, and they may not be able to put down strong enough roots, and too deep, and they may never reach the surface. Check on the back of the packet, or online before you plant.
Whether you go for open trays or segmented trays comes down to preference, and the kinds of seeds youre going for. Segmented trays will make it easier to transplant your seedlings to larger containers once theyre ready
Set the temperature
The key to successful germination is maintaining the right soil temperature. The majority of seeds suitable for growing in the UK need temperatures somewhere between 60-80°F (15-25°C) to germinate effectively.
Maintaining a constant soil temperature is the best way to ensure successful germination, and to give your plants the best start in life. The most effective way of doing this is to invest in heat mats or an electric propagator, which will help you to keep the soil at the right temperature.
At Keen Gardener, youll find a wide range of high quality heat mats and propagators, ideal for providing your seeds and seedlings with the optimum conditions they need to thrive.
Keep them moist
Seeds need the right amount of water to germinate “ but its important not to overwater them.
The growing medium should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. Make sure you check them everyday, and give them a light watering. Dont let your seeds dry out, or they wont germinate properly.
How Keen Gardener can help
Follow this guide, and youll be growing your own plants from seed in no time. Youll find all the equipment and seeds needed for successful propagation over at our online store, all at unbeatable prices.