How to Start Seedlings With Peat Moss

Mix 4 qt. of shredded sphagnum peat moss, 4 qt. of fine vermiculite, 1 tbsp. of superphosphate and 2 tbsp. of ground limestone. This serves as a soilless mix to encourage healthy seedling development. Alternatively, you can buy a premixed growing medium that contains peat moss.

Add water to the germinating mix and let it drain until it is moist, but not soggy.

Fill a container that has drainage holes in the bottom with the peat moss mix, leaving the top 3/4 inch of the container free. Press the growing mix at the edges of the container with your fingers or a piece of wood to create a flat surface.

Use your finger or a ruler to make shallow furrows 1/8 to 1/4 inch deep and 1 to 2 inches apart. Sowing in rows allow the seedlings to get enough light and air. It also prevents any fungus from spreading.

Run the packet of seeds along a row, tapping it lightly to thinly sow the seeds.

Read the seed packet to check whether the seedlings need darkness or light for germination. If the seedlings need light, simply press them lightly into the surface of the germinating mix. If they need darkness, cover the seeds with a 1/4- to 1/2-inch layer of dry vermiculite and press the vermiculite down.

Spray a mist of water to the surface of the germinating mix.

Place the plant container in a clear plastic bag, keeping the plastic at least 1 inch away from the surface of the germinating mix. This retains moisture in the container.

Place the plant container in a warm, bright location away from direct sunlight. Keep the container in an area with the appropriate temperature for the seeds as specified in the packet.