Timing key in sowing seeds

 THE BEST TIME to sow seeds for transplanting depends upon when plants may safely be moved outdoors. This period may range from four to 12 weeks prior to transplanting, depending upon the speed of germination, the rate of growth and the cultural conditions provided. Most plants can be sown successfully in early April for May transplanting.

A common mistake is to sow seed too early and then attempt to hold the seedlings back under poor light or improper temperature ranges. This usually results in tall, weak, and spindly plants that perform poorly in the garden.

After selecting a container, fill it to within -inch from the top with moistened sterile medium. For very small seeds, at least the top inch should be of a fine, screened mix or a layer of vermiculite. Firm the medium at the corners and edges with your fingers or a block of wood to provide a uniform, flat surface.

For medium to large seeds, make furrows about 1 to 2 inches apart and - to -inch deep across the surface of the container using a narrow board or pot label. By sowing in rows, good light and air movement results, and, if damping-off fungus appears, there is less chance of it spreading. Sow the seeds thinly and uniformly in the rows by gently tapping the packet of seed as it is moved along the row. Lightly cover the seed with dry vermiculite or sifted medium if they require darkness for germination.

A suitable planting depth is usually about twice the diameter of the seed. Do not plant seeds too deeply. Extremely fine seed such as petunia, begonia and snapdragon are not covered but lightly pressed into the medium or watered in with a fine mist spray. If these seeds are broadcast, strive for a uniform stand by sowing half the seeds in one direction, then sowing the remaining seed at a right angle to the first.

Large seeds are frequently sown into a small container or cell pack that eliminates the need for early transplanting. Sow two or three seeds per unit and thin to allow the strongest seedling to grow.

After the seed has been sown, moisten the planting mix thoroughly. Use a fine mist or place the containers in a pan or tray that has about 1 inch of warm water in the bottom. Avoid splashing or excessive flooding which might displace small seeds.