Seed Sowing for Earlybirds

The Two T's and Two P's of Early Seed Sowing

Timing
There is little to be gained from sowing too early. In many cases, later sowing will catch up when conditions are optimum. Always make sure you stagger your sowing to achieve a continuous harvest down the track. Don't forget that July and August are still winter!

Temperature
Average temperatures are vital. Warmer temperatures during the day are great but if followed by a cold night, you will lose any advantage that you may have had. Cover seed trays with a sheet of newspaper or polystyrene and move closer to heat sources. Watch that time between late afternoon and late morning when temperatures are closer to 10 than 20! Move your seed trays inside at night, if necessary, to keep the average temperature up. Only water in the morning, never in the evening so that your seedlings are dry at night.

Position
Make sure you position your trays to give your seedlings maximum sunlight during the day. Partial light will cause your seedlings to stretch more than they should at the cotyledon stage and become "leggy". Ensure air flow to avoid mildew settling on damp days.

Protect
And then protect from your beloved moggy who is also looking for a cosy place to keep warm or go "diggies". Your seed trays become very attractive to them at certain times of the day!