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keeping soil moist while waiting for seeds to sprout

>Does anyone have any suggestions for keeping the soil more
>moist while waiting for the seeds to sprout?  Carrots in
>particular have been a big problem for me, last year not a
>single one germinated!!
>
>
>Thanks in advance for any suggestions!
>
>Nancy

Nancy,

I use, right on the soil/seeds, either

1)  cut-up old burlap bags, well soaked and kept very wet or

2)  clear plastic sheeting, anchored with cut up coat hangers bent into a
"u", lifted to water with a cup each day

removed *immediately* upon germination.

I have found that this works very well for carrots as well as other seeds
that take a long time to germinate.  Do be careful when using burlap,
because if not very well soaked it tends to actually repel moisture.  I
lift the burlap and water the soil, then replace the burlap and soak the top
of the burlap.

I actually prefer using the plastic.  I have used everything from dry
cleaning plastic to the plastic sheets used for putting under camping tents.
I just cut into the appropriate sized squares, then rinse, dry and fold when
done, and re-use the next time.

Hope this helps,

Joyce

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