Method 4) How to Sow in Seed Trays

When growing large numbers of seeds of medium size (0.5-2mm), seed trays are useful, but I rarely use a full-sized one. A half sized one, as I’m using here, will produce plenty of seedlings.

Step 1) Fill your seed tray with Seed & cuttings compost, or put multipurpose in the bottom, and half an inch of seed compost sieved over the top (both ways will work).

Step 1) Fill tray with compost

Step 2) Gently tap the base of the seed tray on the surface of the bench to settle the compost. Press gently if necessary to level it.

Step 2) Tap base to settle the compost

Step 3) Sow your seeds – these are delphiniums – evenly spaced about half an inch (1cm) apart across the surface.

Step 3) Sow your seeds

Step 4) Sieve a light covering of seed & cuttings compost evenly over the surface to just cover the seeds.

Step 4) Sieve compost evenly to cover seeds

Step 5) Lightly firm the surface of the compost – with your hand or the base of another seed tray.

Step 5) Lightly firm the surface of the compost

Step 6) Write a label for the tray including what you’ve sown, the variety and the date you sowed it.

Step 6) Write a label

Step 7) Water the seed tray well using a watering can fitted with a fine rose, then allow it to drain.

Step 7) Water the seed tray

Step 8) Put the seed tray in a heated propagator as I’ve done here, or in an unheated propagator tray with a clear lid, or a clear plastic bag and place on a bright, warm windowsill

Step 8) Place seed tray in propagator tray and place on a warm windowsill