How to choose the right seeds for seedlings
Content
General rules and tips
The correct approach to seed selection begins with planning future plantings and land plotting. This is necessary in order to protect yourself from rash purchases and subsequent reflections on where to define a spontaneous acquisition. This is especially true for those for whom gardening is a hobby. Farmers for whom the land is a source of food tend to be more responsible in organizing planting operations.
In addition, you need to choose seeds based on the characteristics of the environment, namely:
- climatic conditions;
- soil composition;
- location, as well as the individual characteristics of the site for planting.
This means that one should not ignore the regionalization of culture, falling for the bait of a beautiful image. The plant is able to reveal its potential only under the conditions determined by competent specialists, thanks to long trials. The same rule applies to exotic specimens. The discrepancy between the microclimate and the nuances of care can lead to disappointment.
It is advisable to seek advice on the selection of suitable seeds from more experienced neighbors in the summer cottage. First, a similar land composition and general conditions will make these tips as relevant as possible. Secondly, you can personally observe the growth and yield of some plant varieties.
The purchase of planting material should be justified not only by the above factors, but also:
- the purpose of the future harvest;
- its quantity;
- keeping quality indicators;
- taste value.
How good the choice is will depend on the purpose of the cultivation, be it for personal use or for sale.
Video "Seed selection and planting seedlings"
This video will show you how to choose the right seeds and plant your seedlings.
Packing quality
Making a specific purchase like seeds is partly like a lottery. This can be justified by the fact that the buyer does not actually see the product itself, and also cannot look into the future. Therefore, such acquisitions are often based on trust in the manufacturer's reputation.
The main factor in choosing the right seed is packaging. The first thing worth paying attention to is the quality of the material and printing work. The paper should be solid and intact, and images and lettering should be clear. In addition, the packaging should provide the consumer with the following information:
- name, logo and contacts of the manufacturer;
- the name of the variety identical to that in the lists of the state register;
- a description of the representative of the culture, as well as an indication of the basic agrotechnical requirements for planting and care;
- the number of seeds. Indicated in pieces or grams;
- batch number of the product;
- abbreviation for compliance with government standards;
- packing date and expiration date.
Speaking about the shelf life of the material, it is worth clarifying that this is, rather, a guarantee of germination that the manufacturer gives for his products. For example, some seeds can be plantable for up to ten years.At the same time, some summer residents, in order to save money, purchase expired goods and reanimate them with stimulants.
Where is the best place to buy
Specialty shops are always the main source of quality products. This also includes online stores belonging to the main trading network. Such establishments are distinguished by increased quality control of products, as well as the necessary conditions for its storage.
In addition, the owners of agricultural networks directly cooperate with seed suppliers, and also have the necessary documentation containing information on the quality characteristics of the product. A big plus of special-purpose stores is their employees. Competent consultants will help you select the right seed for your client's needs.
It is advisable to bypass the market, since street vendors are not able to provide the conditions necessary for storing goods, which is a common cause of damage. In addition, there is a high likelihood of purchasing material for sowing that will yield the wrong variety at best. As an exception, there can be verified market points, which are premises equipped for specific trade.
Hybrid seeds
Hybrid plants are characterized by the fact that they take the best from their "parents". In addition, they are the only crops that produce an even crop with fruits of the same color, size and shape. The fact that the acquired seeds will grow a direct heir to several varieties is indicated by the F1 mark on the package. Sometimes the letter "S" can be found on the bag, which indicates that the contents are luxury products.
The disadvantage of hybrids is that they require the systematic purchase of seeds of the plant you love, since preparing home supplies for planting is a waste of time.
Germination test
Purchased products are often screened to determine if the effort is worth the effort with a new batch of planting stock. There are several ways:
- Quick. The seeds are placed in water. At this stage, some of the contents of the bag remain at the bottom, and the rest floats. Seeds that are on the surface are considered a marriage.
- Long. A dozen test seeds are placed on a wet cotton pad and covered with the same. The test material is placed in the vicinity of a heater. A weekly wait will show the actual result.