DIY seed starting mix - save money and increase your success

[@eliandkate]

Looking for recipes for seed starting mix or potting soil? I gotcha THE NEXT VIDEO TO WATCH Make your own seed starting mix, my recipe: kzbin.info/www/bejne/ZoPIdIKFZa1pmsU How I make my own potting soil: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fGbKgqipn8R4f80

[@wjm1319]

Always knew seed starter didn't *need* to have much nutrition, but I finally saw a reason that a seed starting mix *should* not have much nutrition. Never made much sense to me, as a seed will have all the nutrition the seedling needs...but wouldn't it make sense to feed that plant as quickly as possible? Like as soon as it has a root to take in the nutrition? But I saw somewhere (wish I could remember where) that it's better to have low-nutrition seed starting mix because that forces the plant to grow more roots as it searches for something to eat. Then, when it is potted up or planted out, it has a more extensive root system ready to absorb the nutrients that it now has available.

[@eliandkate]

Perfect. Now you wish you’d bookmarked that so you could find it again 🤦

[@Maazzzo]

Hi this was super helpful, thank you! One question. I had some pansies that were killed off because of some tiny little white things. What do I do with that soil, now? I don't want to use it if it's going to kill off whatever I'd put in there, but I don't want to waste it. Suggestions? thanks again

[@eliandkate]

If you are worried, use it in the garden rather than with seedlings or indoors

[@Maazzzo]

@@eliandkate I only have an indoor garden. :(

[@steveandsherilyn7543]

Sorry to be a Nelly know-all, but here’s the thing about Vermiculite and Perlite, and I’m only writing this because it might be useful information for you and other gardeners. Simply put, Vermiculite is better at soaking up and holding moisture, whereas Perlite does not hold moisture as efficiently and is better at aerating the soil. Just saying! 😀🇬🇧🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿

[@KM-nq7ez]

Are you a “teacher” by profession…. Because you are a born instructor… so clear and concise, you make learning FUN!

[@eliandkate]

😂😂😂 I work in education yup 😂😂😂

[@franceswatts4001]

This is the first year in a decade or more that I will be starting with seeds. After numerous disasters, I just bought plug plants, and straight into the garden. Thanks to this video I have the confidence to try again.

[@eliandkate]

gotta always look at it as 1. fun - it's gotta be about fun 2. a learning experience. otherwise you just get fixated on everythign being perfect and how you caan meet that expectation. Keep it fun

[@emptynestgardens9057]

Eli were you a teacher or instructor in a past life? You are so good at it 👍🏻🌱 ☺️

[@eliandkate]

I am 😍

[@emptynestgardens9057]

@@eliandkate 😂 Brilliant!!!

[@kathleenwalsh5122]

SO good!!

[@helencorry2104]

Was going to say the same! It can take me a lot to focus and watch a whole video without skipping or stopping it early 😬🙄 but this was really straight to the point and easy to follow!! Thank you!!😃👌👏

[@eliandkate]

@helencorry2104 😍😍😍

[@FatcatandFriends]

I sprinkle vermiculite on top of after I’ve sown seeds, esp ones that lie on the surface. It really helps keep it moist.

[@katiekat6768]

Hi Eli🤗 Now that’s just showing off 👀 ☕️😆 my mouth was drooling when you made that coffee it looked so good . Such a fantastic idea 👍🏻❤️ in the summer or when I’m in the garden a lot I take my Nescafé dolce gusto coffee machine out and have it in the shed, it’s all panelled out and nice in there. Don’t have greenhouse as yet. Got fed up shouting up to my daughters to make me a coffee and them ignoring me 😒🤣 ( my kitchen is the middle floor of a 3 story) You have such a brilliant way of explaining things that make it easy to learn. You explain things that can be done, your not up there saying ‘you do it my way’ ‘my way is the right way’ you give us all the opportunity to choose but at the same time letting us know your way, your successes or fails. I appreciate that, thank you. ( although I do try and copy your way of doing things because I trust your gardening skills 😊) Your peppers are coming on amazing… lovely little plants 🪴 Best wishes to you and Kate 🌱🌷🤗🌺

[@eliandkate]

Awwwww thank you Katie, I’m so glad you’re finding our videos useful. Hopefully they’ll help you have a bumper year 😍😍😍

[@esmysyield2023]

Me and wife just started growing our own seeds. We had started a list and were looking up prices right after Mid November. She passed unexpectedly in dec and i tried to get back to it but the prices have almost doubled for everything. Its gona take some ingenuity to figure it all now.

[@eliandkate]

Oh Esmy, our absolute condolences, that’s hard. Unfortunately yeah, seeds have joined the list of things where prices have jumped. Don’t know where you are but you can usually find cheaper supplier who do seeds in less fancy packaging. Here I use premiere seeds a lot for that very reason.

[@esmysyield2023]

@@eliandkate Esmy was my wife. And thank you for the kind words. I am located in South Louisiana USA. And thank you for the tips.

[@eliandkate]

😍 you are entirely welcome

[@LyndseyMacPherson]

I never knew to use so much vermiculite or perlite, but totally understand, now!!! This video is brilliant! I now feel a lot more confident when mixing up mediums. Thank you!!!

[@eliandkate]

In which case Lyndsey I’m happy…. If I’ve helped one person gain a little more confidence than I count that as a win

[@VeronicaChristie]

Blessings... I am so thankful for this instruction.. very clear and simple.

[@eliandkate]

Let’s hope it helps you get going 😁

[@jeffhurst4744]

Your videos were mentioned in other gardening video I watched. This one is very good information and how easily one can save money and mix your own. Looking forward to viewing more of your gardening videos.

[@eliandkate]

Glad you enjoyed it Jeff!

[@cindynielson4231]

I like this K.I.S.S. method (keep it simple sweetheart) my version. Great explanation. I watched Scott's video regarding the Greenstalk, I had tears of joy for you. I'm looking forward to see what you do with this great planter. I do have a few and love them. TFS👍🥰🌱

[@eliandkate]

Glad it was helpful! 👍 🥰

[@cooknwoman]

Seeds were created with all the nutrients they need to germinate and start growing, after that they need nutrients added. This is the first time I've seen your videos and I'm really impressed!!! You explain everything thoroughly!! Thank you so much!! God bless you and your channel ❤️ I'm going to be watching a lot 😀 Thanks again, Susie aka cooknwoman 😋 Love to grow, Love to eat❣️ thanks again!!!

[@eliandkate]

Welcome aboard Susie 😁😁😁

[@vanessawilkinson9855]

Hi Eli I appreciate this is an older video now, but I’m a relatively new subscriber & this has been invaluable to me…thanks 🎉

[@eliandkate]

I’m so glad Vanessa 👏👏👏

[@tassiegirl1991]

Eli just made the seed starting mix oh my it’s fantastic why I never thought of doing it this way is beyond me. I used cocoa coir and vermiculite as you said soft and fluffy. Thank you so much for such good information sharing.

[@eliandkate]

Yay! Hopefully this will be the year of abundance then!

[@christinebrooks6364]

Hi Eli & Kate, great video on seed/potting mix with lots of helpful information & advice too. Thanks for sharing and take care 🙂

[@donnastevens8832]

Hi Eli, loved the video. Simple is always the best way to go. After all, Mother Nature does not use all the different mixes, and her stuff grows just fine lol. BTW - I am SO jealous of your parcel from Gardener Scott😮 and did you every finalise the tomato varieties you both will be growing. Some of us might need time to buy in more seeds to do as a grow along!!

[@eliandkate]

I’m chuffed with my greenstalk… can’t wait We’re going to hopefully be putting the video out about the varieties next week. Scott’s a bit poorly but hoping he’ll be well enough for us to finish the videos for the weekend 😍

[@dustyflats3832]

@@eliandkate oh bummer, he’s been getting weekly snow in CO and it hits here around Wednesday/Thursday the last few weeks. Hope he’s on the mend.

[@dustyflats3832]

I will be doing this tomorrow to fill winter sow jugs. I have an ice fishing sled and I dump a bunch of peat and a 3rd of perlite and season with a light bit of organic granular fertilizer and a sprinkle of worm castings. I used coir last year inside and had terrible mold and threw out the flats. I probably should have added more, no, a lot more perlite as the coir and vermiculite hold a lot of water. Most perennials don’t mind acidic soil. For inside I’m having good results with Promix and I don’t sift it, just pick out larger bits that land on top. I really am trying to avoid up-potting and won’t start peppers and tomatoes too soon this year as the house turns into a jungle. I’m so excited about flowers I’ve never grown from seed are taking off inside. The Non Stop Begonias I think I seen a sign today they are moving, geraniums I just planted a day ago I can see a change and I was really surprised about hibiscus that I threw in a bag with p. Towel and tucked inside heated flat of begonias SPROUTED in 2 Days! I was trying to nick them and the seed was too hard, so I scratch on a nail file until one jumped up and flew clear over to the sink and down like a Plinko Chip. Ugh! I only had 5 seeds!🤨. So happy all 4 sprouted. I should have just threw them in a jug to WS, but I wanted to make sure they succeeded-oh well. My husband, bless him, wanted to surprise me with a phlox one year and planted it on top of a hibiscus I did have some years back. I never seen it again…But I have Phlox!😂 We had another several days of extreme warmth and Tuesday-Thursday we are to get Ice 🧊, mix and snow and one night in either below zero or close.🥶. Thank you and enjoy that Greenstalk🎉

[@eliandkate]

I’m hearing so many people struggle with coco coir and over watering. I don’t think it’s said enough just how moisture retentive it is. Seems to catch a lot of folk out.

[@dustyflats3832]

@@eliandkate first time using last year. Yes, it needs a lot of perlite to make it drain.

[@RAE-homely-fairy-of-the-light]

AWESOME!! THANKS SCOTTISH LADEEE❤

[@mellfraze8112]

I started using coco coir last year with self-watering seed starting trays, works great. The self watering trays are especially helpful when I move them outside to start hardening off. I prefer perlite for making my potting mixes because it is more cost effective than vermiculite & I can use it in all my potting mixes (succulents, orchids, & regular potting). For seed starting mix I do use vermiculite because it holds that little bit of moisture.

[@eliandkate]

Interesting you say perlite is more cost effective. The place I get mine it’s exactly the same price as perlite (which surprised me)

[@mellfraze8112]

@@eliandkate price differences probably has to do with location & shipping costs & other factors. Where I am in Northern California USA, I can get a 2 cubic ft bag of perlite for $18 vs vermiculite being almost double the cost if I can even find it in large quantities (most retailers only stock the little 8 quart bags of it).

[@eliandkate]

Yeah that’s true

[@LisaMay_HomeAndAway]

Just found your Channel love it. Your full of really interesting points and I love the way you come across plus I love your accent I’m from wales but my husband is Scottish

[@eliandkate]

Awww glad you found us 😍 If you are looking for lots of fun, got a video coming tomorrow night that’s going to be a big in that’s just some fun 😂

[@hipdoesstuff3701]

Just wanted to echo everyone's comments. Thanks for an excellent and interesting video. Been inspired and been doing this all today!!😂 Thank you. Really enjoying your channel. 👍👌

[@eliandkate]

Wooohoooo Glad this has inspired you to get productive! 👏👏👏👏

[@robinscontainergarden]

I've used your recipe for both and am still using it. Very simple and very easy to remember. I've amended both purchased compost and my own with the vermiculite and it works a treat. I'm so excited to get started sowing again very soon! I keep looking at my seed storage box thinking...just one won't hurt, right?? 😂😂

[@eliandkate]

🤣🤣🤣🤣 we have to be strong

[@robinscontainergarden]

@@eliandkate But I don't wanna 😂😂

[@chuckylamb4398]

@@robinscontainergarden I’ve already broken- sown lettuce calendula and moringa! But I do have more seeds and they are in the conservatory 😂

[@robinscontainergarden]

@@chuckylamb4398 Don't tell Eli, but I've already sown leeks, onions, some herbs, and a few other items! 😂 🤫

[@eliandkate]

I sowed pea shoots weeks ago Been chomping in them in the greenhouse today

[@bowler8]

For seeds I use peat and vermiculite or pure vermiculite...never fails

[@mamadffaye]

What ratio do you use? Thanks

[@donisenberg3032]

@@bowler8 I use coconut coir

[@chuckylamb4398]

Many thanks. That was so clear and just what I needed as potting composts vary so much and yes last year some of my seeds damped off. I’m already using vermiculite this year but wasn’t sure about quantity plus I’d decided to use some old compost mixed in due to expense but again quantity an issue so thanks, brilliant ❤

[@eliandkate]

Awesome that this was helpful Chucky 😍😍😍😍

[@GardenerGray]

Brilliant, very informative and as you say "do what's right for you" but if you don't yet know..... follow this recipe 👌

[@eliandkate]

Glad you enjoyed it Gray 😂

[@Julez62617]

Brilliant video. Thank you Eli. I've made my own seed mix for the first time. I've used coir mixed with vermiculite and also used compost from a tomato grow bag mixed with vermiculite. Fingers crossed!

[@eliandkate]

Fantastic! Will be interesting to see how it compares to your previous methods and if you change anything for next time :D

[@christinamoxon]

Seed sowing! Seed sowing! Seed sowing! Soooo exciting! 🎉

[@eliandkate]

Can't wait!

[@chrissiehart22]

Thank you Eli I'm learning so much! I've been the kinds girls who plants things and says it's got 2 choices it either will grow or it won't 😂 I won't change my attitude but I might get more success on that and planting things early enough. Garlic planted 30/1 🤦whooops

[@eliandkate]

Wonderful! 😂😂😂

[@simplifygardening]

Great video Eli

[@eliandkate]

Thanks Tony, glad you enjoyed it. You’re up late. Guessing work is quiet tonight 😍

[@briansgardenandpolytunnel8172]

i kept a couple of bags of seed sowing compost from last year for this years seed sowing. it was from asda. 20 litres for £3: 50. surprisingly brilliant stuff. i always use virgin compost for seed sowing. this year i WILL be using a burner to sterelize spent compost. this is to eradicate any grubs in the soil. i have done it this way in the past to no detriment to the finished compost................brian

[@eliandkate]

That’s a bargain!!!!!

[@chicosgarden]

Amazingly coincidental, I just had the thought today "Can I use compost for seeding" so this video came in the nick of time! I have just ordered some Vermiculite, I am going to mix this with Organic Peat-Free Compost (as that is what I just purchase and it is my first time). I am hoping that is ok... Thanks so much for taking the time to create these videos and sharing your wealth of knowledge, they are brilliant!

[@eliandkate]

Yup that’ll be awesome As I said you can use just compost if you want or a mix. I use peat free compost too

[@normalivengood1197]

What a great video! Excellent information and such a joy to watch. Thanks so much!

[@eliandkate]

Hope it helps

[@GrownLocal]

Great video Eli, your compost mix is very similar to the compost we use to grow micros in its made by Melcourt its a peat free compost/coir mix, it's a great combination!

[@eliandkate]

Guessing you aren’t able to produce enough of your own to meet your needs as a business. Bit higher volume than I need?

[@lizatrue7543]

Loved this! Made me chuckle as I listened to the beginning because truly potting soil/seed starting mix doesn't need to be complicated, but somehow people love to make it so. Thanks for your VERY clear explanation of this. Appreciate you and enjoy your video's so much!

[@eliandkate]

🤣🤣🤣🤣 they do don’t they?

[@no.3gardenoffeedin950]

Can't wait to see what our home/allotment made compost is like, just bought a 100l bag of perlite to make up germination/potting mix

[@eliandkate]

Hopefully it’s good. 👍

[@denisegordon5738]

Thank you for this information. I never thought about it before as I am so new to gardening.

[@eliandkate]

We’re always learning Denise, all of us new and experienced 😍

[@Zin-yp3di]

I use both your recipes since a came across them. Works for me😁

[@smokymountaingirl]

Newbie here ... first timer ... can you PLEASE tell me where you got that green shelf like thing you are mixing up your seed starter soil in? I am green with envy and would LOVE to get me some of them!! Or at least ONE of them.... Ive never seen anything like that before

[@eliandkate]

Check out the video description and you’ll see a link to our Amazon page, I fill that with links 😁

[@jokibud1969]

Absolutely brilliant i grow veg ,tatties , peas with my grandson whos 7 he loves it he loves being the boss and most of all he loves digging them up n cooking for his dinner wee spud as i vaw him he loves msking his own tattle crisps an hes want to be s farmer when he grows up. Thankyou for your vid you have auld papa n eee roaster spud in Kilmarnock

[@eliandkate]

😁 glad to help with the wee yin

[@delliwelli3068]

Love your videos. Just got a greenhouse. Getting great ideas from you! Thanks ❤

[@eliandkate]

Awesome! Glad we’re giving you ideas…/ More at 5pm today 😂😂😂

[@carmengiles456]

Thank you for this easy to follow video. You have made this baffaling topic so easy to understand. Appriciate how simple you keep your mixes, shall be sowing my seeds with your mix this week 🙏

[@eliandkate]

Will be interesting to hear how you get on this year and any tweaks you do to make it your own

[@suzycowan5072]

I absolutely love the way you explain everything and you give the reason why. You're not like other channels I have watched that sometimes actually tell you why someone else's method is the wrong method... no, I love how you explain that this is what works for you. Thank you so much for the simple way you explain how and why. May God always Bless you with good health, prosperity, and a wonderful growing season. Love always from... ~SuzyJC-in-Central-Southeastern-Ohio-USA_02.04.2024~

[@eliandkate]

Glad your enjoying the videos Suzy

[@caracurphey6864]

Fab video! Well explained, informative and straightforward. I immediately liked and subscribed. Glad this popped into my feed!

[@eliandkate]

Awwww glad to have you with us 😍

[@Tamsins_Potager]

I wish I could like this video more than once coz I've referred to it a few times now! Thsnks Eli 😊

[@eliandkate]

Glad it’s been helpful 😍😍

[@Jimsraisedbedgarden]

Hi Eli , I watched your videos last year and made notes , just as well I watched you again tonight as I had to amend them slightly lol , I was pleased with how things turned out last year so will be using them again this year, only problem I have had was the Coir I mixed it was very wet and I'm having a job getting it dried out so I need some sunshine ☀, thanks very much for your help and advice xx

[@eliandkate]

I had the same issue with my coir this year but I added a little bit more coir and it did the job of dispersing the moisture Happy days 😍

[@Jimsraisedbedgarden]

@@eliandkate scarey Eli , I did exactly that and it's getting there xx

[@tassiegirl1991]

Thank you Eli now I get it I was buying seed grow mix but found this year it was nothing as before. Yes I looked at many and left unsure you have resolved my questions. I am all for simple Have the ingredients so ready to go. Cheers

[@eliandkate]

It doesn’t need to be fancy so why go to the expense or hassle? 😁

[@cherylhowker1792]

Thanks so much. This explains why I’ve had issues using just compost. But then till 8/10 months ago I didn’t know about anything else. Have used 100L of perlite and switched to vermiculite and seem to be getting different results. And I prefer them. So as they cost me the same I’m sticking with vermiculite. Thanks Eli hope you and Kate are ok x

[@eliandkate]

Yay glad you are seeing improvements Maybe this year will be your bumper year

[@cherylhowker1792]

@@eliandkate hope so. Need my garden and veg patch to concentrate on atm as I’m struggling with life… really only living for the time on the garden and making my own wood chips , enjoying that. We all need something to live for an enjoyment I guess. Thanks for all your support as it’s much needed and appreciated x

[@helenbardsley2634]

Wish I could find similar trays here in Aust, they would be so handy

[@eliandkate]

if you mean the seed trays / flats they are a worldwide thing. I'm sure you could find them check out your local amazon if the garden centre doesn;t have them?

[@helenbardsley2634]

@@eliandkate no I’m referring to the big green tray you use for seed mix If I find them they cost a fortune

[@helenbardsley2634]

@@eliandkate no I mean the big green tray for seed mix I’ve looked, if I did find one it would cost a fortune

[@helenbardsley2634]

@@eliandkate I should clarify, yes I’ve found one similar, not exactly the same, it’s over $110. Half that is postage I’ll stick to cat tray lol I do like that tray though

[@eliandkate]

@helenbardsley2634 for a tray? What tray do you mean?

[@karenmounter]

Very useful, thank you. I will be catching up on previous videos. Love your clear, informative way of explaining.

[@eliandkate]

Glad it was useful Karen 😍

[@limpopoboy814]

Great video, I have followed this seed starting mix with much success. However, what do you do with the seed starting mix after potting on your plant? Considering some seeds may not germinate. I was thinking of just throwing it in the potting mix but for that tiny problem, I just asked.

[@eliandkate]

there's two options for this. Sometimes, I throw it out into the garden, into the beds. Sometimes I reuse it for more seeds. Now yes, the thing is, there might be seeds in there that haven't germinated yet so you just have to be a bit aware. Although I sterilise my seed mix before I use it, so if I'm reusing it for seeds, then the seeds have been killed off by sterilising. Although we are STILL getting tomato seedlings coming up in the flower beds🤣

[@chrislazarou7491]

Fantastic video, so well explained and easy to follow

[@eliandkate]

Awesome Hope it helps 😍

[@Dawn_Grows_Veg]

Nice clear video, thanks Eli 😀

[@eliandkate]

Glad you enjoyed it Dawn

[@Whistlewalk]

You are a very patient instructor. 🤒

[@eliandkate]

ha ha ha you just don't see the hours and hours of stuff that gets cut

[@beckypeterson7522]

It was so strange for my seed starting last year- everything did great in coco coir seed mix EXCEPT my tomatoes! I'm going to use peat in my seed mix with the tomatoes...! (the coco coir made my tomatoes puny and they struggled)

[@eliandkate]

Sounds like you left them in seed mix too long. The plants the grow faster will need nutrition faster. Coco coir doesn’t have any nutrition at all so you can’t leave seedlings in there fornlong

[@dustyflats3832]

It wasn’t good for me either. It molded because it holds a ton of water and really needs a lot of perlite added.

[@maureenconnelly4416]

Excellent and informative video. Getting ready to sow soon so this is brilliant and will save me trawling back through your old videos. 😊👍

[@eliandkate]

Ha ha ha but surely you want to trawl through them cause they are … em… nah ok I don’t like trawling through them either

[@maureenconnelly4416]

@@eliandkate 😆😆I think I must have watched almost all of your videos, some two or three times. 🤪 They are…… great. 👍

[@ourv9603]

HERE is an innovative idea>>> A weed farmer in California (where else?) scavenged a few BROKEN commercial refrigerators from a scrap dealer. He fixed the inside light, cut the cord to the compressors and uses them for seed germination. He places his seed trays inside on growpads & the insulation to keep the refer cold, keeps it warm. WOW. Starting refer in a refer. Whoda thought? Reuse-Recycle-Repurpose just like any good hippie would. !

[@vanessawilkinson9855]

What an excellent video 🎉

[@eliandkate]

Glad you enjoyed it Vanessa

[@stevieb6173]

that is so useful and simple thankyou so much , I m gonna give it a go 🙏🙏🤔🤔

[@eliandkate]

Go for it 😍😍😍😍

[@Cordelia0704p]

You'd be amazed how many bad videos there are on seed starting mix 😀 This was a good one!

[@eliandkate]

Awwww thank you I wasn’t sure if it was simple enough

[@Cordelia0704p]

@@eliandkate it has to be or you'dbhave people in gardening centers driving the poor employees crazy 🤪

[@dustyflats3832]

I’m amazed how many bad food preserving vids there are. Scary.

[@Garden-of-weeden]

Drat I wish I’d watched this this morning when I potted on my peppers 🙈

[@eliandkate]

😂😂😂😂😂

[@sheilathomas8528]

Very helpful and informative, off to buy vermiculite in the morning. Thanks for sharing.

[@eliandkate]

👍👍👍

[@lmphashby]

Loveeee your video thankyou

[@mattingly1217]

Where did you get your dirt mixing station? Looks awesome

[@eliandkate]

From a local gardening supplier but I’ve seen them on Amazon etc too. It’s a potting tray or a potting/greenhouse tidy.

[@mattingly1217]

@@eliandkate I been searching and searching…. Got the tray …. Can’t find the shelf that is orange but I’m working on it thank you

[@carolinebown8686]

As always a great video packed with sound advice & information .... I'm very excited to say ...I now have Pepper seeds that have germinated in 2/3 weeks ( indoors ) & 1 or 2 even have teeny tiny 2 leaves coming ... When should I take them outside to my Greenhouse please ? 😊😊🌻🌻🌻 xx

[@eliandkate]

Same answer as I always give Caroline 😀 When it’s warm enough for them. Hence why I haven’t sown any yet

[@carolinebown8686]

@@eliandkate I know ... but I couldnt wait 🙈🙈🙈🙈😊😊😊

[@eliandkate]

😍😂😍😂😍😂😍 You know you’re getting teacher face don’t you 😃😃😃😃😃

[@carolinebown8686]

@@eliandkate 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@AdventuresnfoodwithJenn]

Hello from across the pond! I have a question. I've watched a few shows on BritBox. And have seen several neighborhoods with what we call "Pea Patches". Just a name for cooperative community gardens. And I believe they're called allotments on the U.K. I was wondering if they're common in most neighborhoods? Cheers! Jenn

[@eliandkate]

There is usually one on most big towns but I wouldn’t say common. There aren’t enough to meet the demand of folk wanting them so there are often waiting lists that can take years for you to be able to rent one.

[@AdventuresnfoodwithJenn]

@@eliandkate Thank you for answering! Keep up the great work. I bought a version of the potting soil tray for this spring.

[@j.b.6855]

I dont use seed starting mix. I use a good quality potting mix that I have sieved to remove the big pieces. This year it will be promix because I got five 2 cu ft bags for $9 each on clearance. I have had good results and no issues and it works for me. Two years ago I splurged and bought high quality seed starting mix, it was full of fungus gnats. Never again. That being said since I am mainly a container gardener I do make my own potting soil mix for out in the garden. I would swiftly go broke filling all the containers with bagged mix.

[@eliandkate]

It’s crazy expensive to buy all this stuff ain’t it…. And getting more expensive every week it seems

[@j.b.6855]

@@eliandkate I find that anything that is being sold for gardening is more expensive. I have gotten good at finding things for the garden that are not specifically for the garden.

[@cybersheep]

Great video, thank you!

[@eliandkate]

No worries 😁 hope it helps you out

[@willdougan9368]

Great vid,, thanks 😁

[@eliandkate]

Glad you enjoyed it Will

[@tammykaltreider]

Brilliant video! Do you happen to know if you were to use Peat moss instead of compost or Cococir, what the ratio of Lyme would be to the peat moss and vermiculite or perlite? Thank you.

[@eliandkate]

Sorry afraid not. I don’t use peat so not something I’ve had to work out

[@TheWacoKid1963]

Love it, "Claggy" some are going to say, whats that? lol

[@eliandkate]

We have so many “foreign” viewers that there are often confused faces at some of the Scottish terms I use 😂🤣😂

[@TheWacoKid1963]

@@eliandkate A number of those words are also common in the Geordie dialect, such as claggy, bairn, auld, bonnie & laddie

[@janettejohns2432]

This is great information thank you so much 🌱😊👍now I understand 😃

[@eliandkate]

👌👍👌👍😍

[@janettejohns2432]

Just subscribed 😃👍🫶🌱🙌

[@eliandkate]

Glad to have you with us 😍

[@amilynnstapay796]

Most excellent!

[@eliandkate]

Hoping we both have the same vision in our heads to the worlds “most excellent” I’m playing air guitar

[@amilynnstapay796]

@@eliandkate lol! Good one! I find those 2 words, when combined, to be rather uplifting! Almost, dare I say it, "fluffy"! I had to do it! Too much drippy and not enough sunny for this PNW'er!

[@debbybrady1246]

Since you are in Scotland, what do you think of peat? And why do you use cior?

[@eliandkate]

I don't use peat based products - not something I've ever done so it's not been an issue for me but I know some of the folk who've used peat products previously have said that it's quite a big learning curve to switch. In the UK, peat is being phased out of home gardening products so it's something we're having to think about and get ready for

[@shaunspooner4614]

Hi eli and Kate would it be possible to revitalise spent compost with blood fish and bone

[@eliandkate]

You can add FBB to add in any nutrition that’s lacking. I do this with my containers and planters. It’s not the same as adding organic matter, to your soil, beds etc but it does the job for revitalising all those big containers you have planted up 😁

[@RachaelHarney]

Really enjoying your videos. I watched your potting mix video where you use the 221 method I’ve shop bought peat free compost that contains coir would I still use the same ratio or use slightly less coir. Thanks.

[@eliandkate]

I’d say no, if it’s already a mix then you can prob reduce the coco coir you might add. It’s one of those things that you’ll get a feel for over time and not need to rely on “recipes”. Just test things out, adjust a little and see what difference it makes until you are happy

[@RachaelHarney]

Thanks

[@ThatBritishHomestead]

does it dry out? I am more worried about them drying out too much, as Im working and dont have the time to water 2/3 times a day!

[@eliandkate]

I only water every few days It will dry out but that’s the point, those little roots don’t like sitting wet… but it doesn’t dry out too fast 😍

[@debyorkshirelass9674]

Hi😊, new subscriber. First time growing tomato, only one plant just to see how it goes and to learn. I've potted on to large container, feed ( seaweed ) . Water regular . My partner built me a small poly carbonate green house so it's in there. So after all info on plant my problem is curling leaves so I guess plant under stress am I feeding to much or watering to much ? Any info would be appreciated .

[@eliandkate]

To be honest, tomato plants will have curling leaves and the vast majority of the time you don’t have to worry. It’s usually just them protecting themselves from dehydration. Try to relax and not assume everything is going to be an issue unless you can see that the plant is clearly poorly. You are dealing with nature, you need to learn to be ok with not being in control.

[@debyorkshirelass9674]

@@eliandkate Thanks sweet 😊

[@GardenofEmma]

Love vermiculite in my sowings as it kees the seedlings healthy. Never used coir though so will try that one

[@eliandkate]

Don’t go buying coir unless you have nothing else. You don’t need it, it’s just an alternative to compost 😍

[@wormulous]

I just used something similar and started 4 10x20 trays. Reckon that's 288 plants? Sounds about right. I have high Hope's this year and have some heat mats and lights for once they sprout. I still have 6 more trays to make but it's too early for the rest of the items. I also have a backup plan of just starting more outside if those don't work out. My biggest fear is things not germinating and being WAYY behind the 8ball.

[@eliandkate]

I think all of us have that same fear FOMO 😂😂😂

[@wormulous]

@@eliandkate it's a real one, I'm telling you that. I've watched probably 2000+ hours of gardening videos the past year and a half. I have the highest of hopes, but the anxiety creeps up at all times. Here we are however, with all of the research, all of the education, all of the inspiration, etc. Just tipping my hats to all of you wonderful creators of sharing that information with the rest of us. If things go well however, I also fear I'll spin out of control and end up buying 50+ acres of land and.... going down a DEEP rabbit hole. 🤣😂🤣

[@eliandkate]

😂😂😂😂😂 We’ll if you…. I’ll have a wee corner of it 🤣

[@123gyra123]

Jodie Foster!!! Oh sorry....I have been looking at you and racking my brain about who you look like to me. (Thanks for your video!)

[@eliandkate]

I’ll have to take your word for it 😂😂😂

[@johnjude2685]

Compose is more than only a medium

[@csherma22]

Where did you get that mixing tray? Looks great!

[@eliandkate]

Check out the video description, there is a link to my tools and gadgets

[@csherma22]

@@eliandkate Seems to only be available in the UK :/

[@dustyflats3832]

Found Tidy tray at greenhouse megastore if not available. Didn’t see on Amazon.

[@eliandkate]

Excellent

[@RAE-homely-fairy-of-the-light]

How do you sterilize the compost?? Chuck in the oven?

[@eliandkate]

I’m guessing you’ve already run a search on my videos and found all the ones on my seed mix and sterilising but just in case 3 ways I’ve cleaned nasties from my seed starting mix kzbin.info/www/bejne/fJ3Of3pveJZ9otE

[@RAE-homely-fairy-of-the-light]

@eliandkate Thankyou dear Scottish friend xx love from Australia 🇦🇺 ps, my mum is from Scottland xx from Banff

[@eliandkate]

@RAE-homely-fairy-of-the-light oh she’s a northern lass!

[@RAE-homely-fairy-of-the-light]

@@eliandkate 😃Yes, and very neat and tidy xx

[@toniastownhousegarden7878]

Hi Eli, what is name of the green container?

[@eliandkate]

It’s my potting tray There are links in the description if you want to go nosey or the gadgets video from a couple of weeks ago gives you details

[@christinamoxon]

The potting tray she's using to mix the compost? They are really useful for keeping the place clean when you don't have room for a dedicated potting bench. Just search for potting tray. X

[@karenshields1878]

Can you use peat if you have it

[@eliandkate]

You can I just choose not to

[@nataliekavanagh5573]

Hey Eli, how do you store hydrated coir?

[@eliandkate]

You see those big white tubs under my bench? I store everything in those, coir, compost, vermiculite, mixes etc

[@nataliekavanagh5573]

@@eliandkate Do I cover it or will that encourage mold? Thanks so much for the advice, been binging your channel!

[@eliandkate]

I cover mine but it's not air tight With coir, mould is less likely than with compost

[@nataliekavanagh5573]

@@eliandkate You're a legend thanks again!

[@marialysaght]

How do I steralize my compost?

[@eliandkate]

The most recent video about it is 3 videos ago… gives you lots of options

[@WayneDavis-rf4ps]

Your compost potting mix then has to be store bought because it must have the NPK already added.

[@eliandkate]

No. It’s a myth that you need to add fertilisers to compost for potting on. There’s plenty in there naturally for the plants. Same with adding compost to your beds in the garden every year. That’s what you do to replace the nutrients that are used up. The one time I would add fertiliser (usually fish blood and bone) is when I’m planting up a bit container or planter where there are going to be big plants and lots of them growing in there through the whole season. I add some FBB in there when I plant up because I’m aware I’m over planting in it and the nutrients will get used up.

[@WayneDavis-rf4ps]

@@eliandkate yeh the seeding has energy with in for a couple of weeks ,then it needs feeding and that is either liquid of a ratio of npk,in the potting mix.if not when do you feed the potting mix.

[@eliandkate]

Ah I get where you’re coming from. So I think you’ve misunderstood the different mixes I’m talking about. So my seed starting mix doesn’t have much compost in it for that very reason. The drainage and “fluffiness” is more important. When we move those seedlings up )pot up), it’s then we switch to a potting mix which has a lot more compost for that very reason, cause now we’re having to make sure the little plants are getting the nutrition they need. Each time we pot up, we’re increasing the size of the pot, adding more potting mix which in turn is adding more nutrients 😉

[@WayneDavis-rf4ps]

Mm,all I know is when the seeding runs out it energy given by it’s parent,it’ need food,in nature seedings germinate and spout their first leaves (Cotyledons)and to survive they start to burrow to find food,it’s that simple.

[@eliandkate]

@WayneDavis-rf4ps yup and that’s exactly what will happen. We don’t leave seedlings in seed starting mix long enough for them to run out of food. You usually pot up once the second set of leaves come in. If you are nervous it’s ok to feed your seedlings while you learn. As long as you use a very dilute solution and just keep an eye on them. As I always say, you do what’s right for you. Don’t let the internet stress you out.

[@stephgriffiths3118]

How do you sterilize your compost please

[@eliandkate]

Hey Steph If you check out the videos I mentioned, I take you through the different ways

[@stephgriffiths3118]

Thank you i will x

[@joycebovee5818]

Do you wet your potting mix and seed, starting mix before planting your plants and seeds?

[@eliandkate]

Yes I do! I don't soak it, but I make sure it's nice and moist for those little seeds :D

[@davidsdesign543]

Respectfully, seed starting mix is something I find greatly over-hyped in my (limited) experience. I just use an all-purpose garden soil mix that is (forgive the pun) dirt cheap. It's not even pasteurized so it grows mold and mushrooms. I've found twigs, bits of plastic and glass in it. And it works just fine. No problems whats-however. Not with germination nor growing. And my wallet lets a sigh of relief.

[@eliandkate]

Hence my reference to not just copying for copying’s sake 😃

[@davidsdesign543]

@@eliandkate Fair enough!

[@sheilasanderson9681]

Just found out that Greenhouse Sensations have ceased trading!

[@eliandkate]

Yeah a wee while ago :(

[@ginavalcke8162]

You are great at explaining things very very simply. I wish I had you when I first started. I was soo confused 🫤 Two things I do different to you if I may. I just use both perlite and vermiculite; I find they complement each other. I water from below with wicking mats and the perlite/vermiculite mix works really well in that context. After visiting Charles Dowding market garden, I started to use warm castings in my potting up mix. It is compost on steroids. If you find a corner for your worms in your garden, I reckon you will be a great worm mother 🪱 🪱

[@eliandkate]

I do the very same watering from below, well for once the little seedlings are baby plant sized and actually have roots big enough for that :D I did a few videos on my set up on it a good while ago no, might need to revamp those now we have all these new people.