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Using polymer crystals for direct sowing of seeds

trowelgal Zone 5A, SW Iowa

20 years ago

Hi,

I'm trying something new this year and wonder if anyone else has tried this idea. I mixed polymer crystals with water and put 1/2 spoonful in each planting hole, topped with the seed, covered the seed lightly with Miracle Grow then misted with water until it was saturated. Seems to me the crystals would keep the seed moist so it could easily germinate. I work during the day so can't be home to water until evenings. Thought this method would slow down the drying out of the new seeds. Just did this today so I don't know how well it will work but my guess is that it will work just fine. Thoughts, comments?

Tina

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Comments (3)

auntielaurie98031
20 years ago
I think the seeds would rot,they need to be moist but not saturated.The crystals are for established plants, and even then you don't want to use to much.I plant my seeds in flats with a dome lid and they don't dry out very fast at all.
Good luck with your method. I hope it works for you.
Laurie
planet_jen
19 years ago
Hey there to trowelgal! Just curious to see how the germination of seeds went this summer. I'm trying a batch of my own right now- california poppies. Now luck after two weeks, it's like watching paint dry. Any followup comments or tips for me?
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trowelgal Zone 5A, SW Iowa
Original Author
19 years ago
Hi,
This worked very well for me. I did Zinnias all over my yard and they germinated and did very well. I work several jobs and can't be home all the time to water so that was the reason I tried this. I will do it again this spring, after May 10th.
Tina

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