Planting Seeds Directly in the Garden

Casting Seeds Direct In The Garden

Direct sowing is an easy way to grow flowers and vegetables by planting seeds straight into the garden soil. Prepare a weed-free area with loose soil, plant seeds at the recommended depth, gently water, and keep the soil consistently moist until germination. Many seeds thrive when sown directly outdoors once the danger of frost has passed.

To learn how to start from seed indoors using the soil blocking method purchase our online workshop: Seed Starting Made Easy.

To Plant Seeds Directly in the Garden:
  1. Using a trowel or your hand, draw a straight line in the bed to plant your seeds in. This line makes a trough shaped like a “V” 1-2” deep. The seeds will be planted at the bottom of the “V” trough to help direct water to the seeds and makes it easier to see where you have planted.
  2. For small seeds, pick up several between your fingers and sprinkle in the bottom of the trough 1-2” apart. Larger seeds can be spaced every 3-4”.
  3. Cover the seeds according to the seed packet instructions, covering those seeds lightly with (1/4”) soil that require it and firming in with a light touch of your hand. Those that do not need covering are simply firmed in with a light touch of your hand.
  4. Water in well and keep moist until they have germinated, which can be 4-30 days depending on your conditions and the seed variety. Covering with a Floating Row Cover for 10-14 days will speed germination, retain moisture, and protect from the harsh elements and wildlife.
  5. When plants are 4-6” tall, thin according to directions. It is important to thin your seedlings; this is essential for your plants to thrive. Pulling the extras is the best way.
  6. For weed control, hand weed and hoe between rows weekly until plants are 4” to 8” tall and can be mulched.
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