Seed Germination in Different Soil Types

Seedlings grow vigorously in the right soil.

Seeds germinate in a variety of media. The soil should be porous, well draining and finely textured. It should be free of pests, diseases and weed seeds. Sterile seed-starting mixes are available at most garden centers.

Soil-Peat-Perlite Mix

Large seeds grow well in a soil-based mix and do not need transplantation immediately after germination. Two-parts sterile potting soil, one-part sphagnum peat moss and two-parts perlite provide the structure and nutrients needed for seedlings until they are transplanted directly into the garden.

Milled Sphagnum Peat Moss

Sphagnum peat moss provides a sterile and well-draining seed germination medium. It inhibits damping off and other bacterial diseases from infecting seedlings. Fertilize seedlings grown in sphagnum peat moss soon after germination.

Vermiculite

This finely textured mineral either is an effective medium for starting small seeds, by itself or combined with sterile potting soil. Use it as a light cover for seeds planted in other media.

References

• North Carolina University Extension: Starting Plants From Seeds
• USDA National Resources Conservation Service: Seed Starting
• University of Missouri Extension: Starting Plants Indoors from Seeds
• Oregon State University Extension: Save Money by Making Your Own Seed Starting Soil
• Purdue University Extension: Starting Seeds Indoors

Resources

• Cooperative University Extension: