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Growing flowers from seeds
You will need seed-raising mix and some seed containers. Egg cartons are a great choice - once the seedlings are large enough to be planted out you can separate each section and plant them without disturbing the seedling’s roots and the carton will break down into the soil.
Refer to the seed packet for guidance on the correct time of year to plant the seeds.
1. Dampen the mix – it should be wet, but not dripping, with no dry lumps.
2. Fill the containers about two-thirds full – keep the mix fluffy and aerated.
3. Small seeds can be sprinkled on top of the potting mix. Larger seeds can be planted individually.
4. Use at least three seeds per container as not all seeds will survive.
5. Cover the seeds with more potting mix and then gently firm. Generally, the smaller the seeds, the less you need to cover them. Sprinkle more water on top of the newly planted seeds. A spray mist bottle is perfect for watering as it won’t disturb the soil.
6. Cover the containers with clear plastic to hold in heat and moisture.
7. Read the seed package for instructions regarding watering, light and feeding.
Ready for planting
The first growing stage happens just after germination when the plants get their cotyledons or ‘seedling leaves’. The seedlings
need to wait until they form their ‘true leaves’ before they are planted into the garden or a larger container. True leaves look like adult
leaves whereas cotyledons are simpler with less detail.
Wait until you have 3 – 4 true leaves before transplanting. This ensures the plant can feed itself after it is transplanted.
Great flowers to grow from seed include:
Sweet Peas
Marigolds
Sunflowers
Dahlia
Cosmos
Forget-me-not
Lavender
Pansy
Zinnia
Poppies
