Seedling soil — how it differs from garden soil
In short: Garden soil is the worst thing you can put in your seed tray. Seedlings need soil that's light, well-draining, and relatively sterile.
Seedling soil is not garden soil
Garden soil: contains pathogens (seedling blight), is too heavy, has unknown pH and lots of weed seeds.
What to look for in sowing soil:
- Light and well-draining
- pH 5.5–6.5
- Low in NPK — overly fertile soil causes seedling legginess
- Sterilized
Options:
- Ready-made seed/seedling soil from the store
- DIY mix: 50% peat + 30% perlite + 20% vermicompost
- Coir instead of peat — more eco-friendly, retains moisture well
After germination (2 true leaves) transplant to richer soil. At the sowing stage, being nutrient-poor is an advantage.
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