How to grow plants from seed

Planting seeds. It sounds like a simple task, but many people find it scary, and therefore opt to, instead of taking on this "challenge", buy seedlings to plant in their garden. Planting seeds is a very rewarding experience, that lets you know, exactly what your plants have been through to get to you! There is something so amazing about eating fruit or vegetables from a plant that you know started as a small seed that you planted and helped nurture as it germinated and then started to grow!

So here is a simple guide on how to grow plants from seeds!

To get started all you need is a packet of seeds (ensure that it is the right time of year to grow the seeds you have chosen), either potting mix or seed raising mix, and some containers to grow the seedlings! I used jiffy pots, which can be put in the ground as they are environmentally friendly and are bio-degradable! But if you don't have them, you can use empty egg cartons or small pots! OR seeds can be planted straight in the ground! I used seed raising mix, as it contains nutrients that specifically feed seeds and encourage germination, but if you don't have this on hand, potting mix works well!

Fill the container that you have chosen with soil, and then water until the soil is moist. Plant the seed in the soil. Follow the directions on the seed packet about how deep the seed should be planted. But most seeds should be planted a couple of mm under the soil. Make sure that you keep track of which seeds you have planted where! It makes it easier to companion plant when you are getting ready to move the plants to the big garden!!

Place the seed tray in a spot that gets good morning sunshine, as well as some shade in the hottest part of the day. This means that the seeds will grow well, and the soil won't dry out. Make sure that you water the seeds everyday, but that the seed tray doesn't flood, or that the water doesn't pool, as this can damage the seed.

After a week to two weeks small green plants will start to sprout! It is still important to ensure they are getting morning sunshine, and adequate water. Once the seedlings are well established, they can be transferred to the main garden!

Easy as pie!! Enjoy your new lease on gardening!

Now that you know how to grow seeds, check out Part 2 on how to grow plants from seed. This will give you some more tips and tricks that will help you out heaps!