Sowing vegetables correctly – the basics
Sowing is the first step towards every harvest – and it helps decide success. Anyone who follows a few basic rules on sowing depth, timing and care gets even, strong seedlings instead of gaps and failures. The good news: sowing is not rocket science.
The most important things are the right timing, the suitable sowing depth and even moisture during germination.
In short
- Rule of thumb for depth: as deep as the seed is thick – only press in light-germinators.
- The right time is on the seed packet; sow warmth-lovers outdoors only after the Ice Saints.
- Even moisture is decisive during germination.
- Do not sow too densely – this prevents diseases.
The right sowing depth
As a rule of thumb: sow seeds as deep as the seed is thick. Fine seeds are only pressed down lightly, larger ones placed correspondingly deeper. A special case are light-germinators (e.g. lettuce, celery, basil): they are not covered with soil but only pressed in, because they need light to germinate. Dark-germinators, on the other hand, must be covered with soil.
The right timing
When to sow is on every seed packet. Soil and air temperature are decisive: many seeds only germinate from 8–12 °C soil temperature, warmth-loving species much higher. Start pre-cultures 6–8 weeks before planting out depending on the species; sensitive crops go outdoors only after the Ice Saints in mid-May.
Step by step sowing
- Prepare the soil: fine, moistened seed compost in clean containers or a fine-crumbly bed.
- Sow: distribute the seeds evenly and not too densely, in rows or drills.
- Cover: cover with soil depending on the species or (light-germinators) only press in.
- Water in: moisten carefully without washing the seeds away.
- Label: note variety and date – it is forgotten faster than you think.
Frequently asked questions
Why aren't my seeds germinating?
Common causes: sown too deep, too cold, too dry or old seed. Check sowing depth, temperature and moisture.
How long does germination take?
Depending on the species a few days to several weeks – radishes germinate in 3–5 days, peppers can take 2–3 weeks.
Tip
Keep the sowing evenly moist but never wet – best with a spray bottle or by soaking from below. A cover keeps the moisture constant.
Caution
Do not sow too densely: seedlings standing too close compete for light, grow spindly and are more prone to damping-off.
Some crops are tricky to sow – here ready-grown young plants are worth it. We raise ours strong and healthy.