by Nadiya Waterloo

Created on: March 06, 2009   Last Updated: March 16, 2009

Growing seeds indoors is a great way to jumpstart your gardening season. Three of the most common ways to sow seeds indoors is to use trays, pots, and modules. Which method you use typically depends on the type of plant you are growing.

Trays- The best method for tiny seeds, ferns, annual flower seeds and wherever mass sowings are done indoors.

Pots- Used for starting individual plants such as tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers.

Modules- Have a wide variety of uses. Sweet corn, leeks, sprouts, cabbages, kale, lettuce, runner beans, French beans, sweet peas, carrots, and specimen flowers are all successful in modules.

Seed sowing has changed dramatically over the years and can now be done with a variety of biodegradable containers. One of the largest advantages to using a biodegradable method is their ability to be planted directly into the ground avoiding any damage to the roots during transplanting. As the pot decomposes the roots grow out into the surrounding ground. With very little preparation required to create a good seed bed, biodegradable containers are every gardener's dream.

There are many types of biodegradable containers available. Here are a few examples:

Paper Pot System- These bottomless paper pots are arranged in a honeycomb formation that prevents a loss of moisture. When the plants are ready to be transplanted the pots can be separated for individual planting without disturbing the roots.

Jiffy Blocks- These blocks are made of compressed peat in a biodegradable net bag. The blocks are left standing on a moist surface until they are ready to transplant.

Grow Tubes- These tubes are best used for sowing seeds that have a deep root such as beans, sweet peas and even carrots. The whole tube can be planted into the ground without disturbing the roots.

Once you have determined the best method for the type of seed you will be planting, the next step is compost preparation. A good compost mix usually leads to a higher germination rate. In order to get the most out of any compost it should be soaked and allowed to thoroughly moisten before seed sowing.

When the compost is ready, fill the container while gently pressing until slightly firm and level and then sow the seed onto the surface. Follow the instructions on the seed packet as to the depth for planting. With fine seeds sprinkle a fine peat on top of the seed, sow flat seeds on their edge and bury large seeds in a hole and cover. Place the container in shallow water and only use bottom watering. To retain moisture, cover the container avoiding opaque covers as some plants require light for germination. Once germination is complete remove the cover and transplant when appropriate.

Growing seeds indoors is no longer the challenge it was in the past. Biodegradable containers, pre-seeded mats and seed pellets allow any level of gardener success with growing seeds indoors. With a little bit of knowledge gardeners can enjoy this way of lengthening their gardening season.

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