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Re: Starting seeds

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I'm sorry. I'm not sure exactly how germinating mix differs from transplant
mix, other than it is heavier. But the basis of a mix that is disease-free
is that it has sphagnum moss, vermiculite and perlite. What I'm not sure of
is what proportions of them are in each mix.
I don't remember what is put in transplant mix to make it a little firmer
and heavier.
But actually putting soil from the ground in a seed-starting mix, (no matter
how fluffy), is going to threaten the seeds.
In most garden soil there will be microbes or bacteria which can or will
make it very difficult for the seeds to develop. So what is recommended is
to buy a mixture that has been sterilized. Different companies give it
different names, but in reality it is all similar.
I don't know what is available to you, but a composition I read about
several years ago recommended 1/3 sphagnum moss, 1/3 vermiculite and 1/3
perlite.
I think the term "soilless" comes from the fact that the 3 things mentioned
don't have any significant nutrients.
Hope this helps a bit more.
Ellen


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