Sowing seeds into cells
A TRAY OF CELLS can be a handy way of getting a large number of seedlings underway.
About cells
A tray of cells can be a handy way of getting a large number of seedlings underway – with something about the size of a laptop generating up to 40 seedlings. Plants like tomatoes and capsicums that have comparatively small seeds are sown into trays of individual planting cells filled with seed raising mix. Seeds are then grown in the controlled environment of these cells until they have a couple of pairs of leaves. By this stage they will soon out-grow the confines of the cells and are ready for transplanting into larger pots filled with potting mix that is a bit richer than seed raising compost and will better support their needs until they are large enough for planting out into the garden.
How to sow seeds direct
1. Place tray on a level surface.
2. Pour dry seed-raising mix onto tray. Spread seed raiding compost across tray till all cells are filled and level.
3. Select your seeds.
4. Pour seeds into palm of one hand and use thumb and forefinger of the other to distribute.
5. Using a pencil or ice block stick push seeds just below compost surface – or to any recommended depth on seed packet.
6. Add a label.
7. Using rose attachment on watering can, water seeds. This gets them going and ensures good contact between seeds and compost. Cover tray to preserve.
Equipment
Tray with planting cells, seed raising compost, trowel, seeds, pencil or ice block stick, labels..
How to
- Place tray on a level surface.
- Pour dry seed-raising mix onto tray. Spread seed raiding compost across tray till all cells are filled and level.
- Select your seeds.
- Pour seeds into palm of one hand and use thumb and forefinger of the other to distribute.
- Using a pencil or ice block stick push seeds just below compost surface – or to any recommended depth on seed packet.
- Add a label.
- Using rose attachment on watering can, water seeds. This gets them going and ensures good contact between seeds and compost.
Cover tray to preserve moisture. - Place on warm windowsill.
