Propagating Houseplants from Seed: Complete Germination Guide

Growing houseplants from seed is rewarding and doesn’t require a greenhouse—a sunny room or kitchen windowsill works. Follow these steps for success.

Preparation

• Warm, stable temperature; good light; no drafts.
• Space for seed trays and future pots.
• Clean trays (small for few seeds, standard for many). One species per tray—label with waterproof ink.
• Daily moisture check; water from below; keep evenly moist, not wet.
• Dark germinators: cover with newspaper or keep in cupboard until sprouts appear.

Step-by-Step Sowing

1. Fill tray with peat/peat substitute; soak clay trays first. Top with sterile seed compost. Firm to 2 cm below rim.
2. Fold paper into V; pour seeds in for even sowing. Avoid edges (dry faster). Label and date.
3. Cover seeds with thin layer of sifted compost (finest for small seeds).
4. Water by setting tray in dish until moisture reaches surface. Drain. Cover (glass, plastic bag, or propagator). Dark germinators: add newspaper.
5. Daily: remove cover, wipe condensation.
6. When seedlings handleable, transplant to prepared tray. Set on wet newspaper temporarily.
7. Dibble holes; plant so only seed leaves show. Water from below; drain. Bright, indirect light.
8. When several true leaves form, pot individually.

Works for vegetables and flowers too—start anything from scratch.