Once Seeded

Refer to video for steps on how to seed.

1. Once seeded, place your seeded pot in a bright spot with indirect sunlight.

2. Keep the soil moist. Check daily; water if the top feels dry.

3. Label your pot so you remember what you planted and the date.

4. Seeds will sprout at different speeds (1-7 days) depending on the crop.

After Sprouting

1. Move to brighter light (sunny windowsill or outdoor shade).

2. Water regularly, letting the soil lightly dry between waterings.

3. Check plant regularly looking for signs of any pests and signs the seedling is getting ready to transplant (2-4 weeks from seeding). Seedlings are getting close to ready when they have 2–3 sets of true leaves — the mature leaves that appear after the first small, rounded baby leaves.

4. After seedlings develop their first set up true leaves, feed seedlings with a diluted organic fertilizer (e.g. fish emulsion or seaweed extract) every 2 weeks to encourage strong, healthy growth without burning young roots.

5. Begin hardening off a few days before planting by putting in direct sunlight outside.

Choosing a Spot for Planting

1. Choose a spot with sunlight and good soil drainage.

2. Before planting, mix compost into the top 4–6 inches of soil to boost nutrients and improve moisture retention.

3. If your soil hasn’t been planted in for a while, break the top 6–8 inches up well and mix in plenty of compost or aged organic matter to bring it back to life.

4. If the soil is depleted, also amend with an all-purpose organic fertilizer to rebuild fertility before planting.

Transplanting Into the Garden

1. The day before transplanting, feed seedlings with organic fertilizer (e.g. fish emulsion or seaweed extract).

2. For seedlings in reusable seed trays, on the day of transplanting, water the seedling to moisten seedling so that it is easier to remove from the cell. This is not needed for paper seed trays that are planted directly into soil.

3. Dig a hole slightly bigger than the pot.

4. For reusable seed trays, gently remove the seedling by squeezing the sides of the pot and tipping it out. For paper seed trays, plant the seedling pot and all into the soil.

5. Place it in the hole, backfill soil, and press lightly.

6. Water thoroughly after planting.

After Planting

• Water daily for the first week, then adjust based on weather.

• Protect young plants from strong sun, wind, or pets if needed.

• Some pests like young leaves so covering seedling with an insect mesh or creating a collar barrier around the seedling, may help to protect the young plant.

• Watch for healthy new growth—your seedling is settling in!