Soil Mix For Seed Propagation
by John Yazo
Soil mix for seed propagation has it's own unique qualities from other soil mixes. It is one that has to cater to the needs of the root systems of tender seedlings and it is one that doesn't need any nutrient value for the seeds to germinate.
The soil structure for seed germination needs to be one that is weed free, toxic free, hold moisture well and have plenty of air space, along with being able to drain well.
Soil free mixes are the best type of media to use for seed germination. There are a few products that can be used alone or even mixed together. Products like milled sphagnum moss, peat moss, perlite and vermiculite are all great products to use for this process, along with a good hot composted humus from your compost pile that is weed free. Do not try to sterilize compost by the method of pasteurization. Heating compost by this method will suppress the microbes in it that fight diseases naturally and will allow them to become airborne pathogens that can reproduce in the potting media. It will do more harm than good.
Making a good multipurpose potting media can be done by mixing equal parts of peatmoss, vermiculite and sifted compost. As you are mixing these ingredients together you should add warm water slowly so that it can be absorbed into the components. Once you have finished mixing it all together, all the components should be moist and when you take a handful it should all stick together. A good mix will be moist and have enough moisture in it to feel wet, but not drip with water when squeezed.
If you would like to comment on this website or have any suggestions please feel free to contact us
