Story: DIY Seedling Starter
Episode: 4
Presenter: Bonnie-Marie Hibbs
Air Date: 11 September 2021

Watching seedlings grow is a very rewarding process. Bonnie shows us how easy it is to grow seeds at home and start eating your very own fresh produce.

• A key step to successful germination is making sure you are sowing the correct seeds for the time of year that you are planning to sow them.
• For spring sowing, there is an abundance to choose from such as; pumpkins, tomatoes, cucumbers, zucchini, corn, and so much more.
• Once you have your seeds selected, it's time to choose what your seeds will be sown into.
• A seedling tray is often used for seeds. These can work well, but once the seed has germinated, you will need to come through and thin and prick the seedlings out to then pot them on into pots for further growth.
• Peat pots and empty toilet rolls are a great alternative, that will reduce environmental waste as they’re biodegradable, meaning they will break down into the soil once planted.
• To sow your seeds, use a premium seed and cutting starter mix. Premium seed and cutting starter mix have added calcium which promotes strong growth and other vital nutrients.
• When sowing seeds, use the end of a moisten pencil to easily pick the seeds up and pop them into the pot. Lightly cover with more soil, keep the soil moist until germination occurs. Then let them grow for 3-4 weeks in their pots before planting them out into the garden.

For more information, head to:
https://www.lovethegarden.com