A super easy technique for seed planting

Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

When I started planting seeds, I quickly realized that it was difficult to handle and plant seeds, especially small seeds. Some seeds, such as celery, are so small they are almost impossible to handle. Now, for the past three years, I have been using this super easy technique for seed planting. Then, I thought to myself, I should share this as a separate blog post.

There are two characteristics that make this technique brilliant. First, all you need is a toothpick and a No. 10 envelope (4 1/8″  x 9 1/2″). Second, the process is simple. Let’s take a look. You can either watch the video or read the text below that describes the process.

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Supplies

As mentioned above, a No. 10 envelope works great. Why? Well, it’s long enough to hold a number of seeds. With a shorter envelope, the seeds are not as easy to work with. In addition, the envelope itself is sturdy and this helps with the seed planting process.

The next supply is a simple toothpick, any variety will do. It’s the point at the end that does all the work. Therefore, it doesn’t matter if the toothpick is made from wood or plastic.

Process

Step 1: Take your envelope and fold it in half lengthwise forming a straight crease in the center. The crease should be on the forward side of the envelope (e.g., not the back of the envelope).

Step 2: Pour seeds from your seed package into the crease of the envelope. Unless you are doing a large planting, you probably will not need all the seeds in the package.

Step 3: In this step, I assume you have your planting containers prepared.

• Hold the envelope somewhat level just above the soil (this prevents all the seeds from rolling down towards the soil). Try not to let the envelope touch the soil. If it touches the soil, the envelope tip may become damp, and the seeds will not move as easily.
• Using your toothpick, move the seeds, individually or in groups, into the container.
• When you are finished planting your seeds, simply hold the creased envelope over your seed packet and pour the seeds back in the packet. So easy!

This technique for seed planting is that simple! In addition, this process can be used when direct seeding outdoors and works equally well.

Related Posts

You might also be interested in the following posts.

• Life expectancy of flower and vegetable seeds
• A simple guide to understanding information on seed packages
• Four secrets for successful seed starting
• Five easy vegetables to grow in your garden
• The joy of direct seeding vegetables
• DIY Wick Watering System

References

Eliot Coleman “The New Organic Grower”