When we start a home garden, especially if it is a small one that we usually place on our terrace, it is common for us to consider the option of planting our own plants. We have two clear options. The first is to buy the seedbeds already prepared, but the most sustainable and economical option is to learn how to make a homemade seedbedThis not only reduces the amount of waste we generate, but also allows us to reuse recycled materials, giving them a second life.
In this article, we teach you how to make a homemade seedbed, what materials you need and the different types of seedbeds you can create, all backed by information based on practical experiences and recommendations more suited to the reality of home gardeners.
what is a hotbed
A seedbed is a space specifically intended for seed cultivation and germination before being transplanted to their final location in the orchard, garden or field. Within a seedbed, the aim is to provide the seeds with the ideal conditions for their early development, ensuring that they become strong and healthy seedlings.
Environmental control in a seedbed is key. We can protect seedlings from extreme weather conditions with the help of greenhouses or structures that provide shade. In this way, we prevent factors such as cold, heavy rain or sudden changes in temperature from affecting germination and growth.
Furthermore, the substratum The soil we choose for the seedbed must be light, well-aerated and with good drainage. This ensures that the roots develop easily and prevents the seeds from rotting due to excess moisture.
Irrigation is also a vital aspect. Watering should be done delicately to avoid excess water, preferably with systems that regulate the amount of water such as drip irrigation or self-watering trays. It is essential that the water does not drown the seeds. adequate lighting It is also critical, whether natural or artificial, using full spectrum lamps when sunlight is insufficient.
Finally, the ventilation is crucial. Plants need partial solitude and a constant flow of air to avoid fungal or disease problems.
Materials to make a homemade seedbed
The most practical and economical option is to opt for recycled materials that we already have at home. Here is a list of recyclable materials that you can easily use to make a seedbed:
- Plastic bottles: You can cut the bottom of the bottles or make them lengthwise to get two trays.
- Yogurt cups: They are the perfect size for individual planting, plus they are easy to drill for drainage holes.
- Tetra Pak packaging: Open these containers lengthwise on one side and you will have a very efficient seedbed.
- Eggshells: Ideal for small sprouts, they can also be planted directly in the ground as they are biodegradable.
Once the material has been selected, we continue with the steps that will help you create your homemade seedbed:
- Rinse the material well: Make sure there are no traces of food or liquids left.
- Make holes in the bottom: This is very important to avoid waterlogging and allow the roots to breathe properly.
- Fill with substrate: Use a specific seedbed substrate, as it provides the necessary nutrients. Damp cotton can also be used in some cases.
- Sow the seeds: Place the seeds in the substrate, water them lightly, and make sure to provide them with optimal light depending on the type of plant and local climate.
How to make a hot bed seedbed
If you want to speed up the germination process, creating a hot bed seedbed This can be the ideal solution, especially if you live in a cold place. This type of seedbed uses artificial heat to maintain a constant temperature that favors the rapid growth of the seedlings.
Necessary materials:
- Plastic tray a few inches deep.
- Thermal resistance (generally used in reptile terrariums).
- River sand or cat litter.
Steps to assemble the seedbed:
- Drill holes in one side of the tray to pass the heater cable through.
- Distribute the heat cable along the tray and secure it with heat-resistant tape.
- Pour a layer of sand over the wires, which will help distribute the heat evenly. You can then place your cups or trays with seeds on top of the sand.
This type of seedbed is ideal for germinating seeds that require higher temperatures, such as tomatoes, peppers and eggplants.
How to plant in a seedbed
The sowing process in a seedbed is simple but with important details that we cannot ignore to ensure the success of our crop.
Substrate preparation is key. It is recommended to make a mixture of peat, coconut fiber and worm humus, with perlite and vermiculite to ensure good drainage and aeration. This combination ensures that our seeds find the optimal conditions for germination.
To sow correctly, place the seeds at a shallow depth. Usually, a thin layer of substrate on top will be sufficient, but the exact depth depends on the size of the seed.
Make sure the seedbed receives sufficient light, but avoid direct sunlight as this could dry out the substrate too quickly.
One of the advantages of planting in seedbeds is that You can advance the sowing weeks before the weather is favorable to do it directly outside, which means you will have stronger, more developed seedlings ready to transplant when the time is right.
With this information, you will have all the tools to create your own seedbed and start planting your own seeds at home in an ecological and economical way.