Seeds wash around!

I want to keep seeds in the same area I put them but they all get washed around by the spring rains. I can't start everything inside, I need a idea for the seeds that are surface sow. I'm going to try covering the seeds that don't need light to germinate with cheap paper towels... think it will work? Do you think the paper towl will disolve enough for the seedlings to come through? I'm tired of the plants ending up in areas that "won't work" (they are too tall for, etc.).

Crimson, if the seeds are fairly large, you can "glue" them onto newspaper strips with a flour/water paste. That way, they'll stay where they're planted long enough to germinate and take root.

Smaller seeds are harder to keep in place; if you have a picnic table or a protected spot that isn't going to get stepped on, you might want to try sowing them in pots (set in flats) outside, then transplanting them when they've germinated and put on some growth.

go_vols: Do you place the seed side up or down?

I'd probably put them paper side down, but honestly, I don't think it'll matter much. Just be sure you plant the whole thing as deep as the seed is wide, and that your newspaper is covered by soil (if any part of it is sticking up, it'll act as a wick to dry out the rest of the strip.)

For small seeds like carrots or herb seeds that I don't start in containers, I have put straw (not hay)over them like you would lawn grass seed. It helps with the impact of rain drops and still lets light thru, then you can remove it pretty easily after they're up.

With poppies, one year I covered them with a black plastic tray, turned upside down, and held in place with a rock. The tray can be kept on until you see germination.... just make sure to check it daily and water if they start drying out. It worked pretty good. Maybe one of the clear domes would be better for seeds that need light. I'd cut a couple holes in it to vent and keep it from over heating.

With my carrots I put burlap over it to keep it moist and keep the seeds from washing away.....

I did see somewhere the use of (ssshhhhhh...don't tell anyone) toilet tissue,lay the seeds on an UNUSED strip,lightly mist,fold the paper over,let it dry and them take outside and plant....never tried it.....don't wanna take a chance on running out....LOL

I use floating row cover (Remay brand) for seeds that need light to germinate. Lets moisture in, but keeps the worst of the damage from wind/rain away. It also moderates the air temperature, not too hot or cold while the seeds are germinating. And no worries about ventilation! Great stuff.

I have tried this method in the ground..Take some of the seeds and mix them with grit, not gravel! press down with a tamper and water well...E.

1601 - I have seen this also done with sand.