DIY seed starting mix.

Seed starting mix is different from potting mix and it’s best to use seed starting mix to germinate seeds. This is because the seed starting mix is more sterile and you don’t need to lose your seeds because of any infection. Also, the seed starting mix is lightweight and spongy which helps tiny seedlings to spread their delicate roots. It is easy to make your seed starting mix instead of buying it from stores. You can save money by making your mix. One of the main reasons to use a seed starting mix to germinate seeds is that seeds already have the necessary nutrients to grow and develop a second set of true leaves. Potting mix contains fertilisers that can burn the delicate roots of young seedlings. Here’s how to make seed starting mix (DIY seed starting mix)

Ingredients required to make seed starting mix:

The main ingredients for making seed starting mix are Perlite, Vermiculite and Coconut Coir.

Vermiculite is made from dry silicate and it can help hold moisture. This prevents seedlings from drying out.

Perlite is incredibly lightweight and adding it to the seed starting mix can help delicate roots to spread out.

Coconut coir is another important ingredient to be added to the seed starting mix. Coconut coir helps to retain moisture and it also provides the atmosphere for delicate roots to spread.

DIY seed starting mix:

For making seed starting mix add 1 part perlite, 1 part vermiculite and 3 parts of coconut coir. Mix it well and moisten it. You can then fill this mix in seed starting containers. Before filling your containers with the seed starting mix, sterilise them properly. Seed starting mix is free from fertilisers and can prevent seedlings from burning. Seeds contain the necessary nutrients for them to germinate and grow until they develop the second set of true leaves. After that, you can feed your plants with liquid fertiliser once a week. Seaweed fertiliser is the best liquid fertiliser to use for your plants as they do not burn the roots. If your seedlings become leggy then reduce fertilising your seedlings. Once your seedlings have grown at least 6 inches, you can transplant them into bigger containers or to your garden.

You can amend your seed starting mix with worm castings, compost or all-time purpose fertiliser and use it as a potting mix. Find out how to make compost in your home.