A gardening expert has revealed a common mistake that many people might be making when it comes to sowing seeds, and it could actually stop your plants from growing. Toby Buckland, a well-known horticulturist, shared a video on TikTok emphasising the significance of achieving correct soil levels when filling your containers.
The Soil Error That Stops Seedlings Growing
According to Buckland, many gardeners try to economise by using less soil, leaving compost halfway up the sides of the pot. However, this seemingly minor oversight can have serious consequences. The rim of the pot shades the seedlings, causing them to stretch towards the light and grow in a leggy, cress-like manner. Buckland warns that such seedlings will never fully recover, so it is essential to fill pots right up to the brim, ensuring the soil level is even.
How to Water and Sow Correctly
After filling the pot, Buckland advises giving it a thorough watering until the compost is completely saturated. You will know it has had enough water when the pot feels really heavy. Once fully watered, you will not need to water again until the seedlings emerge. Then, sow seeds thinly over the top of the soil, and sprinkle a small amount of soil on top to cover them. For even distribution of the final layer, Buckland suggests using the drainage holes of a second pot as a makeshift sieve to gently shake soil over the planting pot.
Viewer Reactions
Viewers who commented on the post were grateful for the guidance, though some lamented that it had come too late for their already-sprouted seedlings. One viewer remarked: "Oh no! Great tip, but my seeds already sprouted, and are leggy." Another added: "Game changer! I've been gardening for nearly 50 years; every day's a school day." A third simply declared: "Fountain of knowledge!"
More Tips for Growing Seedlings
- Use a lightweight, well-draining seed-starting mix rather than garden soil, which can be compact and may harbour pests or diseases.
- Use seed trays, biodegradable pots, recycled containers (like yoghurt cartons), or any shallow container with drainage holes.
- For healthy, strong seedlings, give them 12–16 hours of light per day. Use grow lights or fluorescent lights if natural daylight isn't sufficient.
- Most seeds germinate best at temperatures between 18–24°C. Check seed packets for specific requirements and ensure good airflow.
- Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Overwatering can lead to damping-off disease, a fungal issue that kills seedlings.
- Once the seedlings have two sets of true leaves, use a diluted liquid fertiliser (half-strength) every 1–2 weeks.
- Avoid overcrowding by thinning seedlings once they sprout their first set of leaves. Snip weaker seedlings at the soil line rather than pulling to avoid disturbing neighbouring roots.
- A week or two before moving your seedlings outdoors, gradually expose them to outdoor conditions. Start by placing them outside for a few hours a day in a sheltered spot, gradually increasing exposure to sunlight, wind, and cooler temperatures.
