PEAT MOSS AND PERLITE SEED STARTER:
- 5 parts peat moss (peat moss maintains a moist environment that seeds need to germinate)
- 1-part perlite (helps with drainage so air circulates in the mix)
- 1/4 tsp of gardening lime per gallon of mix
COCO COIR AND VERMICULITE SEED STARTER MIX:
- 5 parts coco coir (holds moisture and contributes a lightweight material for seed roots to grow through)
- 1-part vermiculite (vermiculite aids with drainage but also retains moisture)
Save money by making your own seed-starter mix.
- Make as little or as much as you want and store in a watertight container.
- Use sterile ingredients that are available at the garden center so that seeds are not subjected to bacteria and pathogens which can lead to fungus growth.
PEAT MOSS AND PERLITE SEED STARTER
I like the consistency and texture of the recipe below but many people are successful using equal parts of each ingredient.
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Before mixing the peat moss with other materials, pre-moisten it or it will be difficult to work with.
- Peat moss has an acidic PH, so adding a 1/4 teaspoon of gardening lime per gallon will help neutralize the PH level.
- Mix the ingredients and place in a seed starting container and you are ready to sow seeds.
STORING THE STARTER MIX
- If you make a large batch for future use, do not add water until you are ready to use it.
- Seed starting mix should be sterile
COCO COIR AND VERMICULITE SEED STARTER MIX
Coco Coir bricks are also naturally free of bacteria, fungal spores, weeds, seeds, and are considered a sustainable alternative to peat moss.
Coco coir is also easier to moisten than peat moss.
INSTRUCTIONS:
Mix ingredients and store until ready to use.
Add water to the coco coir starter mix before using it.
