Welcome to the exciting world of Aussie gardening! Starting your own plants from seed is a rewarding experience, and this guide will walk you through the basics to get you growing in no time, considering the unique climate and seasons of Australia.

Choosing Your Seeds

• Consider your climate and Australian planting season: Not all seeds will thrive year-round everywhere in Australia. Research varieties suitable for your state or region. Many seed packets will have specific planting times for different parts of Australia. You can also check out each of our seed product pages for recommendations.
• Think about your favourite Aussie plants: Do you dream of juicy tomatoes, vibrant native wildflowers, or a thriving herb garden? Choose seeds that will flourish in your climate and bring you joy to grow and harvest.
• Start with easy-to-grow Aussie favourites: For beginners, consider seeds with high germination rates and less specific needs, like basil, cherry tomatoes, snow peas, lettuce, sunflowers, or billy buttons (a beautiful native wildflower).

Planting Your Seeds

1. Moisten the Seed Raising Mix: Pour the mix into your trays or pots and pre-moisten it with water until evenly damp, but not soggy.
2. Planting Depth: Refer to the seed packet instructions for the recommended sowing depth. Generally, seeds should be planted 2-3 times their own thickness.
3. Sowing the Seeds: For large seeds, sow them individually in each cell of the tray. For tiny seeds, you can sprinkle them more evenly, then gently press them into the soil.
4. Labelling: Don’t forget to label your pots with the seed variety and planting date!
5. Watering: Use your watering can or spray bottle to gently mist the surface of the soil, keeping it moist but not saturated.
6. Humidity (optional): If needed, cover your trays or pots with clear wrap or a dome to create a humid environment.

Light and Warmth

• Place your seedlings in a warm, well-lit location: A sunny windowsill is ideal for most seeds. Aim for at least 12-16 hours of light per day. In Australia we have to be mindful of the harsh summer sun. You may need to provide shade during the hottest part of the day for some seedlings.
• Rotate the trays regularly: This ensures even growth and prevents your seedlings from reaching towards the light source on one side only.

Patience and Enjoyment!

Germination times will vary depending on the seed variety. Be patient, keep your seedlings moist and warm, and soon you’ll be rewarded with tiny green sprouts reaching for the light.

Congratulations! You’re well on your way to growing your own plants from seed. Remember, happy gardening is all about the journey. So relax, enjoy the process, and get ready to harvest the fruits (or vegetables!) of your labor.

Happy Planting!

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