Are you planning to start your own organic garden but don’t know where to begin? One of the most important aspects of organic gardening is starting from the seeds. However, there are a few common seed starting mistakes that can cause frustration and even failure. In this blog, we’ll go over six of the most common seed starting mistakes that you should avoid to ensure a successful organic garden.
1. Starting Seeds at the Wrong Time
Starting seeds at the wrong time can lead to disappointment and frustration for gardeners. It is crucial to understand the preferred growing conditions for the type of seed being planted, specifically whether it is a warm or cool season crop and whether it will thrive in a particular growing zone. Starting seeds too early can result in overcrowded and stunted seedlings, while starting too late may lead to a shorter growing season. By following some best practices, such as checking the seed packages for specific planting times and using a timer or calendar to schedule planting dates, gardeners can avoid this demotivating mistake and grow healthy plants.
2. Using Inferior Growing Medium
One of the biggest mistakes that new gardeners make when starting seeds is using the wrong growing medium. This can lead to poor seed germination, weak seedlings, and plants that are prone to disease. It’s important to select a good quality soil or other growing medium that will provide your seeds with the proper nutrients and support they need to thrive. Avoid using old, stale soil or soil that has been treated with harmful chemicals, as this can be detrimental to your plants. Instead, opt for a high-quality organic soil mix that is specifically designed for seed starting. Additionally, make sure your growing containers have good drainage to prevent waterlogging and root rot. By using a good quality growing medium, you’ll give your seeds a strong and healthy start, setting them up for success in your organic garden.
3. Starting Seeds in Cold Wet Soil
In order for seeds to germinate and grow, they need consistent moisture. However, starting seeds in cold and wet soil can cause the seeds to rot before they even have a chance to sprout. It’s important to warm up the seed starting mix before planting and ensure it’s only lightly moistened, not soaking wet. Using a plant heat mat can help to maintain soil temperature in the optimal range and encourage successful germination. Remember to remove the seedlings from the heat mat once they emerge to prevent overheating. With the right conditions and attention to moisture, your seeds will be off to a great start!
4. Fertilizing Incorrectly
While it’s important to provide some nutrients for your growing seedlings, over-fertilizing can actually harm them. Seedlings have delicate roots that can easily get burned by too much fertilizer. It’s important to use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Use it sparingly, and only after your seedlings have developed their first true leaves. Once your seedlings have developed their second set of leaves, you can switch to a diluted mix of fertilizer every two weeks. Remember, less is often more when it comes to fertilizing seedlings.
5. Failing to Thin Out Weak Seedlings
Another common seed starting mistake is not thinning out weak seedlings. It may be hard to do, but it’s necessary for the health of your plants. Crowded seedlings become weak and stunted, which could ultimately mean failure down the line. Thinning out allows you to choose the strongest seedlings to grow and thrive. Be gentle when thinning and use scissors or your fingers to cut the smallest plants at soil level to avoid disrupting the roots of the neighboring seedlings. Remember, a little extra time and effort now will pay off with healthier and more productive plants later on.
6. Ignoring the Hardening Off Process
One common mistake that new gardeners make is ignoring the hardening off process. Hardening off is the process of gradually exposing your seedlings to outdoor conditions before transplanting them into your garden beds. Failure to do so can shock the seedlings and damage or even kill them. To harden off your seedlings, start by placing them outside for a few hours a day in a sheltered, shady spot. Gradually increase the time and exposure to sunlight over the course of a week, while also protecting them from strong winds and extreme temperatures. The end result will be strong and healthy plants that are ready to thrive in your garden.
