Having a garden at home undoubtedly brings many satisfactions. It keeps us active While we take care of it, it beautifies the home and creates a space for recreation and relaxation. However, to keep it lush and colorful, it is important give the proper dedication, considering the type of plants we want to have.
If we like flowers, some may take a while to sprout because many species have specific growing seasonsWith patience and following appropriate recommendations, the flowers we sow will eventually bloom when we least expect it. To begin planting our first seeds, we share Practical tips to boost germination.
Steps to follow:
Step 1: Prepare the soil
Start with a loose, airy, and clean substrate. For seedbeds, a seed-specific mix or a combination of coconut fiber or peat with perlite (e.g., 3:1). Aim for a slightly acidic-neutral pH. Remove stones, weeds, and debris; disinfect tools and trays. Some seeds appreciate pretreatments: : soak for 8-24 hours to hydrate, light scarification for very hard seeds and cold stratification for species that require it.
Step 2: Plant the seeds
Sow respecting the general rule: depth 2 to 3 times the thickness of the seedVery fine seeds (positive photoblasts) are scattered on the surface and lightly covered with vermiculite or lightly pressed. Keep them separated to avoid competition, and label the variety and date to monitor the process.
Step 3: Water the seeds
Moisten the substrate before sowing and then water with fine spray or by capillary action from a tray to prevent the seeds from moving. Cover with a perforated transparent lid or film with holes to retain moisture, ventilating daily to prevent mold (damping-off). The substrate should remain moist as a wrung-out sponge, never waterlogged.
Step 4: Provide adequate light
Place the seedling trays in bright, diffused light; avoid strong, direct sunlight until the seedlings are firm. If germinating indoors, you can use grow lights and maintain 12-14 hours of light, placing them 15-25 cm above the surface. Maintain a stable temperature: many flowers germinate well between 18 and 24 ° C.
Step 5: Transplant the seedlings
Transplant when seedlings develop 2-4 true leaves. Handle by the root ball or leaves, never by the stem. Harden the plants (acclimatization) for 7-10 days, gradually exposing them to the outdoors before moving them to their final location. In the ground, respect the distances of the species and plant at the same depth as the seedbed.
Step 6: Caring for the plants
Water deeply and space out waterings to promote strong roots, avoiding over-wetting the foliage. Provide a balanced fertilizer with less nitrogen To encourage flowering, maintain mulch to conserve moisture and control common pests (aphids, thrips) with early surveillance and good management. ventilation.
To start planting our first flower seeds, this time we share some Basic tips that will help your germination.
How to plant flower seeds?
1. Select flowers that are easy to grow
Planting flowers takes time and dedication, but it will bring us great joy when we see the first petals. In addition, the seeds are usually Affordable, so we can plant several.
Sunflowers: They require direct sunlight; place them where they will receive it most of the day. They are expected to begin sprouting around 10 days after planting. They are robust, strong, and they grow tall.
Musical: It can be kept in the sun or semi-shade, provided it has good light. It is resistant to cold and inhibits weed growth. The soil must be maintained. slightly damp.
Lavender: It is essential that it receives direct sunlight. Watering should be moderate, as it tolerates drought and also low temperatures; it is not demanding in terms of soil quality.
Chrysanthemums: a seasonal flower; they require plenty of light and cool, ventilated spaces. It's important to fertilize them well so they bloom vigorously when the sun returns.
Another option is carnation and nasturtium. All that's left is to choose our favorite colors and play with the distribution.
2. Prepare the soil with compost
Prepare the soil to nourish it properly. Dig a few inches deep and add a quality compost with nitrogen, phosphorus and potassiumThese nutrients help with growth, bright colors, and good drainage.
There are fertilizers for all types of plants and others specific to flowers. We can also create fertilizer with organic material (vegetable peelings) and place it at the bottom. Ideally, the compost should cover at least 6 cm deep to promote decomposition.
Do not add fertilizer without first moistening the soil (not flooding it) or removing dry branches or weeds. Avoid very clayey, sandy, or stony soils, which make it difficult to grow. protect roots and transport water.
Each flower requires a planting depth different depending on its size, so it is advisable to find out about the needs of each type.
3. Spread the seeds well
Spread the seeds evenly throughout the area. If they are crowded, they will compete and may wilt prematurely. Flowers need enough space so that their roots can grow without being hindered.
Once distributed, cover with a light layer of soil and water again with very fine water. Keep them well hydrated during this stage. stimulates germination.
Plant several flowers of the same species in one place to provide equal care. If combining species, designate an area for each type. This way, location and soil preparation will be adjusted to every need.
Additional tips for general flower care
Water directly into the soil
Avoid directing the water jet directly onto petals or leaves; this could weaken them. It is best to direct the water towards the plant base so that the soil can distribute it. Prioritize watering during flowering and warm periods; irrigation system automatic helps maintain consistency.
Protect the flowers from the wind
Strong winds can break stems and tissues and disrupt heat and gas exchange, which slows plant development. They also reduce pollination by decreasing the bee activity. Plant near fences, install a lightweight fence, or place among shrubs to cut drafts.
Choosing a low-nitrogen fertilizer
To encourage flowering without excess foliage, choose a fertilizer low in nitrogenFor a quick boost, apply a dose of liquid fertilizer; for the rest of the season, apply a slower-release granular fertilizer.
With these guidelines you will be able to germinate seeds more successfully and enjoy strong seedlings to develop without stress until transplantation and flowering.
