Frequently Asked Questions:

My seedlings grew about an inch then shriveled. What happened?

If your seeds sprouted but shortly after shriveled, it is most likely an issue with the environment. This condition occurs for generally one of two reasons; the soil dried out or the environment was too humid and the seedlings rotted.Seedlings need consistently damp soil to thrive. To insure the best soil dampness, we recommend following the directions of pre-moistening the soil in the soil bag before planting. By doing this simple step, you are ensuring the dry soil pockets that occur naturally will be worked out. You will create a perfect damp soil environment (it should feel like a damp sponge when touched) for your seeds to sprout and thrive.The directions also mention placing a piece of plastic wrap to create a small greenhouse effect for your seedlings. This method is a great way to create environment consistency. But make sure the plastic has some gaps to allow air to circulate. By doing this you will ensure your seedlings are not trying to germinate in too much humidity. Humidity can be as deadly for seedlings as a lack of water.

I have a lot of plant but no blooms.

Some of the varieties of our gardens are perennials. A perennial will have just vegetative growth the first year and bloom the second. You will be rewarded for your patience in that these flowers will bloom forward year after year. Annuals bloom only once, but if allowed to reseed they can continue blooming. Annual tip: let some of the flower heads go to seed without snipping them off. Those seeds, with a little help of covering them with soil, can grow and bloom the following season.

I have little or no sprouts.

1. Soil temperature is the issue. Most seeds germinate best when the soil temperature is 70-75°F. Some common temperature issues can arrive from being close to an air conditioner or in a cold windowsill. One tip we recommend is placing a simple desk lamp hovering over your planting (about 6-8”). This will create a good initial light source and generate the warmth seeds require to germinate.

2. Seed planting depth. Most seed should have about 1/8” of soil over it when planted. For very small seed like mint, we recommend simply sprinkling seed over the top of the soil and using your finger to push into the moist soil just enough to make firm contact. Burying seed too deep makes it very difficult for a seed to germinate.

3. Watering. It is best to spray planted soil and small seedlings to begin with. Heavy watering, rather than spraying, may wash the seed to the sides of the vessel or break tiny new shoots.

4. Seed age. While we regularly test our seeds for germination before placing them into our garden kits, we cannot control how long they may sit on shop shelves. With time, some seed can drop in germination. Our seed is unconditionally guaranteed. You can always reach out to us for help or more seed if needed.

We have designed and made our gardens in Idaho since 1998 and we stand behind everything we make. Growing from seed is truly rewarding and worth the effort. We are here and ready to help.

Happy Gardening!
Potting Shed

 

Have another question? Email us: custservice@pottingshedcreations.com