GUIDE

Propagation: sowing seed

4 steps

How to do it

  1. 1Check whether a seed needs light to germinate (surface sow, don't cover) or darkness (cover lightly).
  2. 2Sow into free-draining, low-nutrient seed compost rather than rich general compost, which can encourage damping off.
  3. 3Keep consistently moist but never waterlogged; a clear cover helps retain humidity until germination.
  4. 4Prick out seedlings into individual pots once they have their first true leaves.
COMMON MISTAKE

Sowing too thickly, leading to weak, leggy seedlings competing for light with a much higher risk of damping off.

Plants that use it

Their calendar has a job that points to this guide.

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