When Connie entered this thread I was just beginning to plant some seeds--pastuerizing my mixes at the time,etc. So out came the camera; the pictures aren't the best. There are many different ways and techniques one can use and (I've used quite a few) depending what works for your intention. I always like to say that planting lily seeds is just as easy as planting tomato seeds--with just the added step of sterilizing/pastuerizing the mix which you can do ahead of time and store in large freezer bags.
I like to use retangular pots at least 5 inches deep with lots of drain holes I put in them. Retangular pots fit nicely together. I cover the bottom washed and sterilized pea gravel. Then I place barrier clothe inside the pot as a liner between the gravel and dirt mix. I usually precut these ahead of time. This keeps the villians from entering the drain holes. I use 'Plain Jane' potting soil without anything added so I can add 'what I want'.
I start by mixing potting soil and COARSE sand--not patio block sand or play sand--about 25 to 30% sand in fairly large batches (can be stored in large freezer bags ahead of time). I bake or pastuerize the mix in large pans--large turkey roasting pans work great--I can get two at a time in the oven. I bake this out for three hours at about 150 degrees F. It would be shorter time for smaller amounts. This can be stored in large freezer bags too. This mix will be very dry so when ready to use water must be added back in. I boil this water.
Next I add about 20 to 25% seed starter of either a couple of good named brands because I'm assuming them to be sterile. I fill the pots about 1 and 1/2 inches from the top, either spread the seeds or if spacing the seeds I use the head of a large roofing nail (sterilized in glass of alcohol) to make indentations 1 inch apart. I cover by hand sifting 1/4 inch of my final mix.
Next, I'll place a paper towel over the pot and water down (with some of the boiled water). Then finally placed in a warm room kept close to 75 degrees F. I keep the containers covered until the 'the seeds are up' and until then, when I moisten, I water thru a wet paper towel. Once up I keep them in a well lit area. Little plants will be moved outside in early june in a shady location to harden out. I may add a little very dilute firtilizer along the way.
So here's a few pics from yesterday. Wlhile I was doing this yesterday a little bird was facinated by the seed starter bags. I see he left me a tip!
