1. Light

Seeds need an adequate amount of light to be able to germinate. so placing a seed tray close to a window or in a greenhouse/tunnel is the best place. Try not to place them in direct sunlight, choose a window that gets the sun 1st thing in the morning or last thing in the evening when the sun is at its weakest. If the seed trays are placed in the direct sunlight , when the seeds emerge they can be scorched by the sun coming in through the window.

2. Heat

For seeds to germinate the soil temperature needs to be above approx 10 degrees celsius. So if placed in a tunnel or greenhouse, a heater may be needed.

3.Moisture

Moisture is very important for seeds. Once you have the seed tray filled with compost, water it lightly on top. Then keep the compost moist as the seeds germinate. Try not to over water or the seeds will rot, if under watered then they will dry out and not germinate. I find it best to use a small spray bottle and mist the compost every few days to keep the soil moist but not wet. 

You will also need a seed tray or pots to sow the seeds in. Some root vegetable seeds, like carrots, can be sown directly into the soil once the soil temperature is high enough and the risk of frost is gone. 

You will also need a good seed compost for sowing. 

Seeds great to get kids interested in gardening are cress and sunflowers. They germinate quickly and are very impressive when grown. The cress can be eaten and the sunflowers can grow taller than them, which is great fun to watch. 

Any questions please email us on sales@beechmount.ie