Garden Tips

Choose the Right Soil Mix

Seeds need light, fluffy, well-draining soil, not heavy garden dirt. Use a seed-starting mix or make your own:

• 1 part peat moss or coco coir

• 1 part vermiculite or perlite

• 1 part compost (optional for nutrients)

Prep Your Containers

You can use, seed trays, small pots, recycled cups (poke drainage holes). Good drainage prevents root rot, which happens when roots sit in too much water and begin to decay. Without drainage:Soil

• stays soggy

• Roots can’t get enough oxygen

• Fungal diseases can develop

Moisten the Soil First

Before planting, add water to your soil mix and mix until it feels like a wrung-out sponge (not soaking wet) this helps seeds settle evenly and prevents washing them away later.

Fill and Level the Soil

Fill your container with soil, lightly press (don’t pack it down tight) and make sure to leave a little space at the top.

Plant the Seeds Properly

The General rule is to plant seeds 2–3× as deep as their size.

Examples:

• Tiny seeds → sprinkle on top (don’t cover)

• Medium seeds → light soil cover

• Large seeds → plant deeper

Water Gently

Use a spray bottle or gentle watering, keep soil moist, not soaked. Bottom watering (placing container in water briefly) works great too.

Provide Warmth & Light

Most seeds germinate best at 65–75°F so place near a sunny window, porch, patio or use grow lights.

Maintain Mositure

Cover with a humidity dome or plastic wrap (optional). Remove once sprouts appear.

Once they sprout, remove weaker seedlings and leave the strongest ones to grow. Transplant When Ready- When plants have 2–3 true leaves, move them to larger pots or outdoors.

Gradually expose them to outside conditions (this is called “hardening off”).

Thin Seedlings