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What does it mean when the seed packet has stamped on it "Caution treated with Thiram. Do not use for food, feed or oil"?
S AU
02:43PM, 20 Oct 2009
Answer: This means that the seeds in this particular pa...
Category: Growing Vegetables & Herbs
Expert
02:43PM, 20 Oct 2009
S AU
Why aren’t my seeds germinating?

Submitted: 02:45PM, 20 Oct 2009
Answer: Over-watering is the main cause of seed failure for most types of seeds. Seeds need water and oxygen to germinate, so are best started in a light, loose soil that will not compact, get soggy, or crust over. Free flow of water & air are a must. Cover seed with 2 – 4 times their thickness of soil, unless they require light to germinate. Barely cover small seed, and sprinkle fine seed on the surface and water by misting. Lightly tamp soil to insure good contact with the seed, unless heavy. Keep soil moist, not soggy, and do not allow to dry out. Common causes of failure are soil too heavy, wet or cold, or allowed to dry out, not giving slow seeds long enough to come up, pests eating the seeds or seedlings, and not giving dormant seeds the proper pretreatment. Careful attention to the instructions in the catalog and on the packet will help ensure good results.
Category: Growing Vegetables & Herbs
Tags: seeds, plant_care
Answered: 03:09PM, 20 Oct 2009

Comments (3)

  • Tracey

    Yates site member

    12:49, 10 November 2009

    Thank you now I know why my seeds are failing for the first time.

    Reply

  • David

    Yates site member

    09:24, 09 November 2010

    It can take a bit of practise to get high rates of germination, when I first started with seeds I was using a hand sprayer to keep moist but found that I wasn't providing enough and just under the surface the soil was dry. Just move the seed raising mix and have a look to make sure the soil is moist underneath. I now have very high germination rates, over 90% I prefer to be more on the wet side than dry. Seed like carrots and shallots they can handle it if you a bit heavy handed with the water

    Reply

  • Oliver

    Yates site member

    19:37, 08 December 2010

    I'm having a problem getting my seeds to germinate too. I have just been reading your comment David, Thanks very much, sounds like good advice. I have sandy soil, so I will take on board you advice.
    Regards Oliver

    Reply

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