How to Germinate in Peat Pellets

Place the compressed peat pots in a seed starting tray or shallow container. Position the pots with the opening pointing upward. Allow 1/4 inch between pots as you fill the tray.

Pour lukewarm water over the compressed peat pots so that water fills the bottom half of the tray. Pots expand within a few minutes of soaking up the water.

Add more water, if necessary, until all pots have expanded to full size. Allow them to sit for several minutes until all pots are fully expanded. Drain off excess water.

Make an indentation in the peat in the center hole of the pot with your finger or the tip of a pencil. Sow one or two seeds per pot, following the recommended seed depth for the plant. Work the peat over the seeds and firm them down lightly with your fingers.

Place the tray in a warm area that receives bright indirect sunlight -- unless your particular seeds indicate otherwise. Most seeds require sunlight and warmth to germinate, but there are exceptions.

Place the plastic cover over the plant tray to increase the humidity and prevent drying of the peat pots.

Check the pots daily for signs of drying. Add water to the bottom of the tray whenever the pots appear dry to the touch. If the pots appear soggy or show signs of mold, remove the cover to allow excess moisture to evaporate.

Remove the cover once seedlings germinate. Germination time varies, depending on the type of plants grown. Some seeds, such as tomatoes, may germinate in a few days, while some herbs and perennials may take up to a month. Refer to the seed packet for predicted germination time.