Sowing

Sowing in Seed Trays

To begin, fill your seed tray with a seed-raising mix and moisten with water using a mister. Follow the instructions on your seed packet for specific planting requirements. Once planted, lightly cover the seeds with a thin layer of mix, and press down gently to ensure good contact between the seed and the soil. Position the tray in a warm, well-lit position, away from any low night temperatures. If you’re growing outside, make sure it is in a sheltered and sunny position.

Sowing in the Ground

If you’re sowing your seeds directly into the ground, prepare your garden beds by mixing in Kings Garden Mix, and then raking to form a fine seedbed. Plant the seeds according to the instructions on the back of the packet, and then rake over them gently with the remaining soil. Water in lightly once planted. Some seeds, like beans and peas, grow well up a trellis.

Care

Watering

Water your seeds regularly, ensuring the soil does not dry out. If you’re growing in a seed tray, use a hand sprayer to moisten the mix by misting the seedlings. If growing in the garden, use a hose on a sprinkle setting, reducing the water pressure and ensuring the nozzle is facing upwards. Water gently, as too much heavy watering can disrupt the roots of germinating seeds and seedlings.

Transplanting

Once your seedlings have at least two pairs of true leaves, you can start transplanting them into the ground. Lift them by their leaves to avoid damaging the stem and root system. Gently tease apart the seedlings, and plant them individually into prepared holes, slightly deeper than the level they’ve been grown in. Press the soil around the plant, and water carefully.

Feeding

Once your seedlings have been transplanted, you can begin fertilising. Use Kings Liquid Fast Food Fertiliser, or Aquaticus Organic Garden Booster at half strength for young plants.

Expert Tip

As your seeds grow, gradually increase the amount of time they spend outside, slowly introducing them to a different climate in a process known as 'hardening off'. But be mindful of frosts!