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Sowing flower and wildflower seeds in the garden can be a rewarding experience for gardeners of all ages, perennial seeds from around the world are popular in cottage style gardens and are easy to buy online.
Bulb seeds provide access to a range of species not found in commercial bulb catalogues. Native wildflower seeds are also increasingly popular in the American Garden and can also be found for sale online.
A few terms that refer to growing and sowing seeds are worth knowing.
Germination or garden seeds.
Seeds need to germinate to commence growth, some seeds are easy to germinate others are difficult. Some seeds require bottom heat or a cold frame to assist with germination. Check individual seed instructions before you buy seeds for specific germination information.
Tilth
Soil tilth is all about soil structure, garden seeds come in a range of sizes and the finer the seed the finer the soil needs to be for germination purposes. Seeds need to be surrounded by soil to encourage proper germination, fine seed sown into course soil will have problems.
Sowing Garden Seeds
Some seeds are best sown directly into the garden as they resent being transplanted, others are better started in containers and then transplanted or potted up. Remember to label plant seeds when you first sow them.
Seeds are generally sown at a depth that is 2-3 times the seeds diameter. Some seeds require heat to germinate and if you do not has a greenhouse are best started using a cloche type arrangement to provide warmth, this can be achieved by covering the pot with a plastic bag until seeds begin to sprout.
Fertilizer for garden seeds
We use liquid seaweed fertiliser on our seeds, promotes germination and root growth.
Hardening Off
Seeds that are grown in greenhouses, cold frames or in any controlled environment need to be 'hardened off' before planting out in the garden or intolarger pots. This simply means a gradual introduction to the open garden. Open the cold frame slightly each day and increase the opening or place pots of new seeds in a semi shaded position for a week or so until the acclimatise. Remember to maintain water as pots tend to dry out quickly in the garden.
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