I have tried numerous types of composts to get my seeds up and growing, but
I find that they tend to get like a lining on the top of the compost, and
when watering the water tends not to disolve into the compost for a few
minutes. I am using John Innes seedling compost, maybe I am letting the
seedlings get to dry but I try not to over water them.

Is there anyone out there that can let me know what they use and how damp do
you keep your seed compost.

Thanks for any information

Geoff.

In article , meogeo geoffnospam@irel
and46.freeserve.co.uk writes
I have tried numerous types of composts to get my seeds up and growing, but
I find that they tend to get like a lining on the top of the compost, and
when watering the water tends not to disolve into the compost for a few
minutes. I am using John Innes seedling compost, maybe I am letting the
seedlings get to dry but I try not to over water them.

Chiltern seeds advice against soil based potting composts IIRC.

I use a peat free wood chip based compost. It doesn't wet easily, so I
stand my seed pots in a waterproof tray, so that water can soal back up
from the bottom. I ofen put the whole lot in a plastic bag till
germination so that I don't have to worry about keeping an eye on it.


I *aim* to keep me compost moist. I don't always achieve it.
--
Kay Easton

Edward's earthworm page:
http://www.scarboro.demon.co.uk/edward/index.htm