Sowing seeds directly in the ground

Why sow directly in the ground?

Sowing directly in the ground allows plants to grow from the start in their permanent environment, without undergoing the stress of transplantation. Especially since some plants do not appreciate being transplanted. This direct contact with the soil promotes deep and stable rooting, ensuring more robust plants that are better adapted to local conditions, such as soil type or climate. This technique is also less demanding: it avoids the need to buy pots, specific compost or manage seedlings indoors. Finally, it offers a direct connection with nature, where the gardener accompanies the plants in their development at the rhythm of the seasons.

However, this method requires particular attention to ensure the success of the seedlings, particularly in terms of soil preparation. The success of this type of sowing depends heavily on temperatures and humidity. A cold spring or dry summer can compromise germination and the development of young shoots. The seeds and young plants are directly exposed to external hazards, such as birds, slugs, insects or weeds, which can smother or devour them.

Which plants can be sown directly in the ground?

Sowing directly in the ground is ideal for robust plants that germinate quickly and can withstand natural conditions. Among vegetables, you’ll find radishes, carrots, spinach, beans and peas, which adapt well to this method. These crops, often undemanding, establish easily in well-prepared soil and provide generous harvests.

As for flowers, many annuals such as nasturtiums, zinnias, cosmos, poppies and marigolds are perfectly suited to direct sowing. They add a touch of colour and lightness to the garden while requiring little care. For a wilder effect, wildflower meadow mixes, featuring cornflowers or daisies, are an excellent option.

Herbs, such as parsley, coriander or dill, can also be sown directly in the ground. They thrive easily in well-drained soils, provided their light requirements are met. However, some more delicate plants, like tomatoes or peppers, prefer starting under cover to ensure successful germination.

When to sow directly in the ground?

The ideal time for sowing directly in the ground depends on the type of plant, local climate and weather conditions. As a general rule, direct sowing should be done when the soil is sufficiently warmed and the risk of frost has passed.

Follow the recommended sowing dates indicated on seed packets and resist the temptation to sow semi-hardy flowers, which are sensitive to cold, at the first sign of March sunshine, as a late frost could ruin all your efforts.

If you’re using leftover seeds from last year or previous years, always check the use-by date before sowing… otherwise you may end up with nothing germinating!

How to properly prepare the soil?

Avoid deep digging

Contrary to what one might think, there’s no need to dig the soil deeply before sowing. This disrupts the soil’s natural balance, particularly the microorganisms and earthworms that contribute to its fertility. If your soil is light, a simple rake to remove stones, level the surface and lightly loosen it will suffice. However, for more compact or clayey soil, it’s better to use a broadfork or digging fork to aerate without turning it over. These tools help break up compacted layers while preserving the soil’s natural structure.

Create a fine, even seedbed

Once the soil is loosened, it’s important to refine the surface to provide optimal conditions for your seeds. Use a rake to level the ground, break up clods and achieve a fine, even texture. This ensures direct contact between seeds and soil, promoting germination. Don’t forget to weed thoroughly – even the smallest weeds can quickly compete with young seedlings for water, light and nutrients. If needed, add a thin layer of sieved compost or potting soil to perfect the seedbed.

Add amendments if necessary

In most cases, properly prepared soil is sufficient for sowing undemanding annuals or vegetables. These plants grow quickly and generally don’t require prior enrichment. However, if your soil is particularly poor or sandy, a moderate addition of well-rotted compost or organic fertiliser can be beneficial. Work these amendments into the surface layer to avoid disturbing the soil structure, and avoid overloading with nutrients, as this could harm germinating seeds.

Check soil drainage

Poorly drained soil can lead to waterlogging, which risks rotting seeds. To prevent this, ensure the soil allows water to pass through freely. If not, you can mix in some sand to lighten the soil or raise sowing areas by forming small mounds. This precaution is especially important for seeds sensitive to excess moisture, such as carrots or lettuces.

How to sow?

The choice of sowing method depends on the location you’ve selected and the type of plants you wish to grow. The three main techniques are sowing in rows, broadcasting, or seed-by-seed sowing. Here’s how to proceed with each method.

Sowing in rows

Sowing in rows is ideal for plants you want to grow in an orderly fashion, such as root vegetables (carrots, radishes) or cut flowers (zinnias, cosmos). This method also makes maintenance easier, particularly weeding and thinning.

To sow in rows, start by drawing a straight furrow about 1 cm deep using a stick or the handle of a tool. Sow the seeds as evenly and sparsely as possible to avoid overcrowding. If needed, mix your seeds with a little fine sand to distribute them more easily. Once the seeds are in place, cover the furrow with fine soil, lightly firm it down with the palm of your hand or the back of a rake, then water gently with a fine spray to moisten the soil without displacing the seeds.

Broadcast sowing

For a natural effect or a flowerbed where strict organisation isn’t essential, broadcast sowing is perfect. This method is often used for wildflower meadows or to quickly cover an area.

Scatter the seeds evenly across the surface by hand. For better control, you can mix the seeds with dry sand beforehand to prevent clumping. Once sown, lightly rake to cover them with a thin layer of soil while ensuring good contact with the ground. Then, firm down with the back of a rake to stabilise the seeds, and water gently with a fine spray to maintain the moisture needed for germination.

Seed-by-seed sowing

Seed-by-seed sowing works perfectly for large seeds, such as those of nasturtiums, sunflowers, beans, or sweet peas. This method is ideal for precise sowing in a flowerbed or at the base of a support, like a trellis or stake.

For this method, make small holes (or dibbles) spaced according to the plant’s needs, typically 20 to 30 cm apart for flowers or vegetables. Place each seed at a depth roughly twice its diameter, usually 1 to 2 cm for most large seeds. Cover each hole with fine soil, lightly firm it down with your fingers, then water generously with a fine spray to thoroughly moisten the soil around the seeds.

How to monitor and care for seedlings?

The work doesn’t stop once the seeds are sown. Regular maintenance is necessary to ensure good growth. The first days and weeks are crucial, as young seedlings are vulnerable to weather conditions, pests, and competition from weeds.

Keeping the Soil Moist

The key task is to keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate, as sprouting seedlings are delicate. The soil should remain damp but never waterlogged to prevent the seeds from rotting. Use a watering can with a fine rose to water gently, preferably early in the morning or late in the day. If sowing during a dry spell, water lightly every day or every 2-3 days, depending on the temperature. Gradually space out watering sessions, but don’t let the seedlings suffer from drought.

Protecting Seedlings from Pests

Sometimes, seeds sown on the surface need protection from birds—in this case, place a net slightly above the ground, supported by small stakes (not directly on the soil, as birds can peck through!).

Slugs and snails are often drawn to tender young shoots. To protect them, opt for natural solutions like barriers of ash or crushed eggshells, or use organic pellets in case of a severe infestation.

Weeding Regularly

Weeds can quickly take over your plot and compete with your seedlings for water, light, and nutrients. Weed as soon as possible, being careful not to disturb the young plants. A hoe or weeder can help remove weeds between rows, but handle gently to avoid damaging the roots.

Thinning Seedlings

Thinning is essential—unless you’ve sown seed by seed. After germination, if seedlings are too crowded, they’ll hinder each other’s growth. Once the plants are sturdy enough to handle (when stems reach 5-8 cm), carefully remove excess seedlings to achieve proper spacing, typically 10-15 cm apart, depending on the plant size.

Of course, keep the strongest-looking seedlings—they’re the winners! Sometimes, a second thinning is needed for bushy plants.

Monitoring Young Plants’ Health

Check your seedlings regularly for signs of disease or deficiencies. Yellowing leaves may indicate overwatering or nutrient deficiency, while holes in leaves suggest pest activity. Adjust care based on the issues identified, opting for natural solutions whenever possible.

A few tips

• Respect spacing: Too many seeds in the same spot can lead to excessive competition. Take the time to space out your sowings, even if it means thinning them out later if necessary.
• If the soil is dry when sowing, water the bottom of the furrow. The seeds will appreciate this moisture and germinate more quickly.
• To sow very fine seeds, which inevitably fall in “clumps” on the soil, mix them with sand (river sand) to “dilute” them, sow on the surface and simply press lightly, without trying to bury them.
• Choose the right time: Sow preferably in calm and humid weather, to prevent the seeds from being blown away by the wind or dried out by the sun.
• Label your sowings: Don’t forget to mark your rows or sowing areas with labels, to avoid accidentally trampling or weeding them!