wrote in message
...
Spider wrote:
Seeds contain their own food supply, which is enough to get them through
germination and the production of cotyledons (the first atypical leaves)
and
the first 'true' leaves. After this, they need potting on, especially if
(snip)
If you're having trouble with moisture levels, try sprinkling a layer of
fine-grade vermiculite on the top of the soil after sowing. It will help
to
retain moisture and will also help to stop the growth of algae on the
soil
surface. It is naturally inert and sterile when packed, so should not
introduce disease. It allows light through, so you can even use it on
surface-sown seed.

That was really useful, thank you. I made a decision to put more effort
into growing from seed this year (I've been hit and miss over the past few
years, but we often end up just buying seedlings). Things normally start
out ok, then go pear shaped. This year they just aren't starting off at
all!


You're welcome :~).

I confess I'm a bit shoddy in my seed sowing. I've had some real successes
in the past, but even these haven't given me the confidence to carry on. I
have limited space to bring seedlings on, and I'm sure this is dampening my
enthusiasm. My mini-greenhouse has turned into a mini-shed (and occasional
cat retreat), which doesn't make it any easier. I keep saying I'll get a
shed to provide some decent storage but, when I look around the garden, I
can't see a patch that I'd like to give up. Most of my seed-sowing,
therefore, is of the hardy-can't-go-wrong type that I can start outdoors.
However, I will have to start off some tomato seeds indoors soon. I'm
usually lucky enough to be given young plants by a keen elderly neighbour,
but she has had a stroke recently, so I feel duty bound to take over and
provide her with plants this year. Perhaps this is the very catalyst I
need.

Good luck with your endeavours.
Spider