Burlington Garden Center

Seed Starting 101

1. There are three types of seeds:
   • Tiny seeds, like impatiens, can be mixed with sand in a small container and broadcast over the media in the seed tray.
   • Fleshy seeds, like beans, peas, and nasturtiums, like to be soaked before planting.
   • Hard shell seeds, like morning glories, can be soaked or nicked opposite the eye of the seed with a knife or file.

2. Use a sterile soilless mix in shallow seed trays.

3. You can reuse trays after washing with 10% bleach water.

4. To germinate, you need air, moisture, and warmth.

5. Cover seeds with vermiculite to retain moisture.

6. Press down firmly and cover with a plastic dome to create a greenhouse environment.

7. Use a spray bottle to keep moist.

8. Keep temperature between 68-70 degrees. Heating mats designed for this purpose work really well.

9. Check daily. Once your seeds have sprouted, move them to a sunny spot or under grow lights. Keep the lights six inches above the seedlings.

10. When the seedlings have the second set of leaves, called “true leaves”, they can be transplanted into cell packs or peat pots. Or try our new cow pots made of dehydrated cow manure.