Fill each seed tray to the top with quality seed compost. Then dampen the compost using a fine spray.
Firm down the compost gently before sowing.
Sow the seeds carefully finger and thumb – or use a seed sower – rather than sprinkling seeds direct from the packet.
Cover the seeds with a depth of finely sieved compost as deep as the thickness of the seeds. You should note however, that some fine seeds will not need covering with compost at all – check on your seed packet.
Water well using a fine spray of water – but be careful not to soak the compost with water. Then cover the seed tray with a clear cover.
Place your seed tray into your propagator. Position the propagator in an area with plenty of light, but avoid strong sunshine which can damage young seedlings.
When your seedlings start to appear reduce the humidity by gradually opening up the vents of your seed tray covers. Once the seedlings continue to grow without any humidity within the seed tray cover, they will be strong enough to survive without the cover at all.
If your seedlings seem crowded together it’s at this time that you should ‘prick out’ the seedlings using a dibber. Overcrowding can cause your seedlings to be starved of light and oxygen – so you’re best to remove the weaker seedlings to allow the others continue to grow.
When the seedlings are large enough to be handled then you should give them more space to grow by transplanting them into pots or trays. Be careful to only handle young seedlings with their leaves – a widger will help you to transplant seedlings without damage to their roots.
Now your plants are out of your propagator allow them to continue to grow indoors - – either in your home, greenhouse or cold frame – until they become large enough and strong enough to plant out.