Presprouting Seeds Organically

Posted by Ena on September 6th, 2007 filed in Seed Starting

Sprouting seeds before you plant them can boost germination rates and give you more control when working with expensive or rare seeds. The following method is one I use in my Organic Garden.

Spread a double layer of damp paper towels on a flat surface.
Evenly space seeds 1″ or so apart on the moist towels.
Roll up the towels, being careful to keep the seeds from bunching up.
Label the seed roll and enclose it in a plastic bag. Close the bag loosely - germinating seeds need air. (If you wish you can put several rolls in one bag.)
Put the seeds in a warm place, near a water heater or, most common, on top of the refrigerator. Make a note on your calendar to check them in 2-3 days. After your first inspection, check them every day for sprouting.

Plant sprouted seeds in individual containers using a fine loose potting mix, or plant them directly into the garden. Handle them with care as the fleshy roots and stems are easily broken. Then treat as you would other newly germinated seeds.

Note: Flowers such a poppies, hollyhocks, and nasturtiums do not like being transplanted, so you are best to sow them where they are to bloom.

meet you on the garden path.

Share this Article: