Sowing methods - direct sowing and pre-cultivation

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Benji Freeman
Aussaat-Arten - Direktsaat und Vorkultivierung

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    In principle, sowing is very simple: sow the seeds in the soil, water them, and with a little patience, the first tender green seedlings will soon appear.
    In practice, the situation is somewhat different due to the different requirements of the species: Due to the constantly changing weather conditions and the different properties of the seeds, pre-cultivation can create better conditions for some varieties, which have a positive effect on the development and growth of the plants.
    Over time and with the experience gained, certain varieties have proven to be more suitable for direct sowing or pre-cultivation.

    Direct sowing

    Direct sowing is a proven method in gardening and agriculture, where seeds are sown directly in their final outdoor location. Unlike pre-cultivation in protected environments, sowing takes place directly in large containers, in the garden bed, or in the field. 
     
    This method is particularly useful for robust plants, which germinate quickly and do not have sensitive growth phases. The advantages are that no additional seed trays or pots are required, and the plants can acclimate directly to the ambient conditions in the garden.
    Direct sowing can be applied in three different ways: broadcast sowing, row sowing or hill sowing.
    Broadcast sowing is a method of sowing in which seeds are evenly distributed over the soil surface without first being planted in rows. This can be achieved, for example, using a broadcast seed drill that scatters the seeds across the field. This method is often used when sowing grasses, wildflowers, or certain grains to achieve a natural and even soil coverage.
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    Spinat-Pflanzen sprießen nach der Direktsaat
    Row sowing is a farming method in which crops are sown in clearly defined rows. This means the seeds are planted in parallel lines at a specific distance from each other. This method facilitates the care, watering, and harvesting of the crops, as it allows for better control and overview.
     
    Hill sowing is a special sowing method in which seeds are placed in small, raised mounds, or "hills." These mounds are created in the garden or field to better protect the plants and promote their development.
    The advantage of this method is that the soil in the mounds is well-aerated and water drains better, preventing waterlogging. It also facilitates maintenance and weeding. Clumping is primarily used for vegetables such as peas, beans, soybeans, corn, cucumbers, melons, and squash, which benefit from this improved growing environment.
    The disadvantage of direct sowing is that birds, ants, and other creatures can eat or carry away these seeds. They can also dry out or float away due to excessive water.
     
     
    To successfully sow direct seeds, the following 5 steps will help you:
    1. Selecting the right plants
    Root vegetables such as carrots, beets, radishes, parsnips, and legumes such as peas and beans are particularly well-suited for direct sowing. Lamb's lettuce and spinach can also be sown directly outdoors, allowing them to establish themselves better in the location.
    2. Soil Preparation
    The soil should be well prepared for the plant species before sowing. This means removing weeds, loosening the soil deeply, and enriching it with sand, compost, or organic fertilizer, depending on the soil's needs. Loose, nutrient-rich soil generally promotes germination and healthy plant growth.
    3. Sowing Time
    The sowing time is crucial for optimal plant development, so pay attention to the right season, which varies depending on the plant. Spring is ideal for most plants, when the risk of frost has passed. For some other species, sowing before or during the cold period is even important, such as cold-germinating seeds, which then break their dormancy and are ready to germinate.
    4. Sowing technique
    Scatter the seeds evenly over the prepared area or sow them in rows. For light-germinating seeds, lightly press the seeds onto the soil surface; for dark-germinating seeds, completely cover them with soil.
    Observe the recommended planting distances in the variety information to ensure the plants have enough space later.
    5. Watering and Care
    After sowing, it is important to keep the soil evenly moist. Avoid waterlogging, as this can impair germination. If necessary, a layer of mulch can be applied to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Varieties sown too closely can be thinned out to the appropriate plant spacing after the seeds have emerged.
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    Voranzucht von Samen - Vorkultivierung in kleinen Kästen

    Pre-cultivation

    Pre-cultivation is a method in which seeds are first cultivated in protected environments such as seed trays, pots, or a greenhouse before the young plants are transferred outdoors or to their final growing area. This technique is particularly useful for plants that have a longer growing season or are sensitive to external conditions. Pre-cultivation is a valuable method for extending the growing season, increasing the chances of success, and starting gardening early. It is especially recommended in countries with short summer periods to ensure an early harvest. With proper care, healthy, vigorous plants can be cultivated and significantly improve the harvest.
    Germination and cultivation in protected spaces allows for better control of temperature, humidity, and light. This ensures a higher germination rate and strong young plants.
    Some young plants are sensitive to frost, rain, or wind. Pre-cultivation protects them from these influences and allows rare varieties with few seeds to be used selectively and sparingly.
    Pre-cultivation is a reliable method with a high chance of success, especially for plants that are difficult to germinate or have short growing times.
    The following 7 steps explain what is necessary for successful pre-cultivation:
    1. Selecting the right plants
    Plants with longer growing times or sensitive varieties, such as tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, eggplants, or lettuce, are particularly suitable for pre-cultivation.
    2. Substrate
    Prepare the seed trays or pots with low-nutrient, loose, and well-draining soil. This will provide optimal conditions for germination and growth of the young plants.
    Geschutzte_Voranzucht_-_Vorkultivierung_-_Protected_pre-cultivation_-_pre-cultivation_-_www
    Geschützte Vorkultivierung in einem Gewächshaus
    3. Sowing Time
    The correct sowing time depends on the plant species. Typically, sowing takes place 6-8 weeks before the planned outdoor planting. For frost-sensitive plants like tomatoes, it's best to sow them about 4-6 weeks before the last frost date.
    4. Sowing technique
    Scatter light-germinating seeds evenly over the substrate and press them down to create a positive seal with the soil and facilitate rooting. For dark-germinating seeds, sow the seeds at the specified depth in propagation containers and then cover the seeds with soil.
    5. Watering and Care
    Keep the soil moist, but not too wet. The optimal way to water during pre-cultivation is with a spray bottle or a fine, gentle stream of water to avoid washing away the seeds. Place the growing containers in a bright, warm, or cool location suitable for the variety. Grow lights can be used for support if necessary. Ventilate regularly to prevent mold growth. Once seedlings appear, they can be supported with additional light if needed, and watering should also be adjusted to the plants' needs.
    6. Separating the seedlings
    After the seeds have germinated, they are separated into individual pots or trays. Nutrient-rich substrate is used to provide the plants with the nutrients they need for growth.
    7. Transplanting
    When the plants are large enough and the weather is suitable, the small plants can be carefully transplanted outdoors or into their final location. Ensure adequate spacing and proper soil preparation.

    The application decides

    No-till allows for gentle soil cultivation and rapid plant establishment, while pre-cultivation offers better control over germination and growth. The choice of method depends on the specific crop requirements, soil conditions, and desired yield goals. With the correct use of both techniques, farmers and gardeners can make the most of their land and achieve successful harvests.
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