Propagation: What's your method? Veggie seeds from germ to ground......, 3 by

wrote:
Junebugged,
The above was THEN, this is how I do it NOW with Deno method.

Any seeds that are large enough to handle will benefit this way. Also, you can determine how many plants you want so will save on seeds. Germination is also quicker.

HERE IS HOW:

Although all seeds can be sown directly in the ground ior in flats, I prefer the Deno method explained below. It offers control over the seeds, unlike those sown directly in the ground. The name “Deno” is named after Dr. Deno, a scientist who invented this method. (Thank you Doctor Deno)

Since vegetable seed don't require cold to germinate, just soak them overnight in hand hot water.

You can simulate nature using a damp kitchen paper towel. Cut it into ½, then ½ again. You will have 4 squares. You will have one square for each type of seeds. Wet the square, and then squeeze out the excess water. You want the towel damp, not wet. Fold it in half. Place the seeds in a corner and fold one end over the seeds twice. Place this package into a zip-lock bag and zip it, leaving a small opening to blow air into the bag to fill like a balloon. Once filled, zip it closed. Place the package in room temp to germinate. Check them frequently, and pot up any seeds that sprouted.

Seedlings should begin to appear somewhat earlier then recommended. Sprouting time can be a genetic factor. At this point, check the seeds several times during the week, starting after the 3rd day. As soon as seeds have formed a radical (tiny roots forming) use a tweezer to grasp the seed casing and transfer to seed flat or pot. Make a hole with a pencil and guide the root into the hole. Plant so the seed is 1/4" below the surface, 1" or more, apart. Be sure to place roots downwards in the hole. If the roots have grown into the paper towel, just tear around the roots and plant it. Do not try to remove the roots from the paper. The paper will eventually rot.

I plant the sprouting seed to a 6-pack, using potting soil. Available in Wal-Mart, or other stores, these are 6, 1” pots that are attached. Or, several seeds of the same cross can be sown together in a 4-6" pot.

If when sprouted, it is difficult to see which is roots, and which is the top. In that case, place the seed on its side and cover. The roots will grow downwards by itself. Do not allow the roots to become too long before planting. The seeds can be planted as soon as germination is seen.

Until the sprouted seeds have broken through the soil, they do not need light. However, once they do, grow them in a sunny window, under light, or place the flat outside in a protected area if weather is warm.

When the seedlings are large enough to handle pot them in a 3" pot.

1] Seeds in moist paper towel folded, then inserted in ziplock craft bag. (found in Walmart craft Dept.
2] A great tool to water delicate seedlings with.
3] Daylily seeds showing radicals and ready for potting into 6-packs.
4] Acclimating plants before planting out. They are in a plastic bin that can be covered if need be. Located on the east side of my garage for morning sun.
5] Another way to acclimate many plants. Purchased from Family Dollar for $34. It is all metal and comes with a plastic cover.

This message was edited Feb 2, 2014 12:25 AM