Starting with Seeds, part 1


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compartments which can sometimes be separated into 6 or more sections for easy sharing with neighbors. The home grower can with careful handling reuse them from season to season. Seedlings started in 72 cell cavities will typically need transplanting 3-5 weeks later and can then be transplanted into 36 or 18 cavity cells or larger pots until they are ready to go outdoors.

Peat pots are also available. Instead of plastic these containers are made from peat which will limit root disturbance when transplanted as the pots are planted directly in the soil outdoors where they allegedly should decompose. Personally I find that peat pots dry out too quickly and inhibit good root growth.

Irrespective your choice, I do recommend the standard nursery flats. They usually cost $0.99 - $1.99/each at home improvement stores or garden centers. Some times you can also find them online. They are very handy when it comes to watering seedlings and transferring them outdoors. Two cheap plastic nursery flats nested inside each other provide for a very durable tray and you will not have to buy the sturdier carrying trays which are generally more expensive. If available, buy a few plastic propagation domes also. These are 2" or 3" tall clear plastic domes which fits snugly over the top of the standard flats. The domes will retain moisture and provide for high humidity which is required during the germination phase. If you can not find the clear plastic domes then a roll of plastic wrap (for micro waving food) will do just as well.

Shopping List.
Here is a short recap of what you need:

Complete Seed Starting Setup:

  • One 4' shop light fluorescent light fixture ($11.95)
  • two 48" 40 watt cool white fluorescent light bulbs ($3.95 / 2 pk)
  • a "vacation" light timer ($9.95)
  • seed starting soil-less mixture 1 x 8 quart bag ($3.95)
  • houseplant fertilizer ($3.95)
  • 1 package of your favorite seeds ($0.99)
  • Pots (pixie cups, planting pots, etc) ($10)
  • A few nursery flats and a dome, if available ($5)

  • Total price: USD$ 49.74

In the next article we will setup the lights, fill the nursery flats with growing medium, and plant the seeds.

ALL PROPAGATION ARTICLES. CLICK HERE

The copyright of the article Starting with Seeds, part 1 in Seeds & Plants is owned by Kenneth Joergensen. Permission to republish Starting with Seeds, part 1 in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

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