HOW TO HANDLE PELLETED SEEDS FOR BEST SOIL CONTACT

To ensure pelleted seeds make good contact with the soil and germinate properly, follow these steps:

✅ How to Handle Pelleted Seeds for Best Soil Contact:

  1. Prepare a Fine, Moist Seed Bed

    • Use seed-starting mix that’s light, fine, and pre-moistened (not soggy, just damp like a wrung-out sponge).

    • Avoid coarse or chunky soil that prevents proper contact with the seed coat.

  2. Press Gently Into the Surface

    • Do not bury pelleted seeds deeply.

    • Place them on the surface and gently press them down using a flat object (like a wooden label or the back of a spoon) to ensure the pellet touches the soil.

  3. Mist Thoroughly After Sowing

    • Use a spray bottle to mist the surface well.

    • This helps soften the pellet coating and starts the hydration process so the seed inside can absorb moisture and begin germination.

  4. Cover Lightly (if needed)

    • Some pelleted seeds need light to germinate (e.g. lettuce, begonias)—do not cover those.

    • For others that prefer darkness, you can sprinkle a thin layer of fine vermiculite or seed-starting mix just enough to cover the pellet.

  5. Maintain Humidity

    • Use a humidity dome or plastic wrap over the tray to keep the environment moist.

    • This is crucial for dissolving the pellet and allowing the seed to break through.

  6. Bottom Water Only Once Sprouting Starts

    • Once you see germination, water from the bottom to avoid disturbing the delicate seedlings and to keep the top from crusting.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • ❌ Planting too deep — pelleted seeds may never germinate if buried.

  • ❌ Letting the surface dry out — this stops the pellet from softening.

  • ❌ Using coarse soil — poor contact equals poor germination.

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