GUIDE
Propagation: sowing seed
4 steps
How to do it
- 1Check whether a seed needs light to germinate (surface sow, don't cover) or darkness (cover lightly).
- 2Sow into free-draining, low-nutrient seed compost rather than rich general compost, which can encourage damping off.
- 3Keep consistently moist but never waterlogged; a clear cover helps retain humidity until germination.
- 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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