Introductory guide to sowing seeds

[@becd3048]

would just like to say a big thank you to Charles, after being on a waiting list for an allotment for many years i finally have my first 1! after feeling quite overwhelmed when a saw the nettles/brambles and weeds, I started to follow Charles as i was intrigued by the health of the soil and no dig. I feel like Charles has guided me through a difficult 3 months, I now have 6 no dig raised beds, a compost bin and ready to make a start with sowing some seeds - still only a 3rd of the plot ready but its a start - thank you Charles don't think i could have done it without you.

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

How lovely to read this Bec, and how many people like your comment. I'm thrilled to have helped! and that sounds really promising. Keep removing any attempted regrowth by those perennial weeds 😀

[@leeannebaker1829]

Exciting times for you! Good luck x

[@partidaportet27]

Growing any plant is an exercise in hope and to hear this in your message is heartwarming. The more no dig advocates Charles signs up, the better chance we have to restore both our environment and our health, i truly beleive.what he is doing is gods work.. I only wish he was the minister in charge of UK AG. 😊 I am always smiling to see a message from a new grower who is starting out with a foundation of understanding the importance of less disturbance to our precious soil. Good on you and good.luck

[@partidaportet27]

@Ray S building soil.fungal mass is the key to controlling the Nitrogen state, and this helps us control what weeds have to eat or not. This is why no till has less weed pressure, that and not of course sending accidental germination signals to latent weed stock by introducing volumes of oxygen which causes also the transformation of Nitrogen states. Fungus helps maintain Nitrogen in a reduced state NH4+ or as an amino acid, and most (certainly most annual.weeds) prefer NO3- Nitrate. Not digging the soil and so not breaking those developing fungal mycelium will help tie up food sources and this will also help reduce weed pressure. Covering is a.method we might use.but time is key,.we ought not to smoother soil.so it can no longer respire for long periods..better plant something like clover, vetch, and a cover crop so that the life can continue to function. No plants, no charge to the battery, less life supporting energy in the soil for later.

[@maryegerton6848]

Oh wow! I got a rush when I read this. Wait until you see your seed babies come to life. There is no feeling like it! I wish you all the best and have tons of fun. ☮️💕

[@ambethk77]

I really appreciate all the hard work you put into these videos and then answering so many comments. What a gift you are to the gardening community. God bless you!

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

Yes it is a commitment, and it feels worthwhile because I can see the wonderful differences, and how much my effort is appreciated by people like yourself!

[@lisafeck1537]

I also appreciate Mr. Dowding's hard work and excellent content. He is so patient to talk to many like me, so much of what he does is very different than what I have understood and practiced.

[@jozefaz7644]

Niech Panu Bóg błogosławi skutecznie

[@Jreichh]

❤️❤️❤️

[@lejardinaGG1126]

Bonjour, je cultive en serre, 9m2 et 6m2, comment faire: dois-je enlever de la terre et remplacer par 3cmde terreau, ou simplement mettre 3 cm de terreau pour arriver au niveau des bordures

[@tmd7859]

30 minutes of the Gardening Godfather!!! YES PLEASE!

[@weldagirl]

Hi Charles. I believe this is the first time I have ever commented on a KZbin video. But I would like to personally thank you for so generously sharing your experience. I am making a vegetable garden replicating your setup exactly. I figure 'why reinvent the wheel' when you have spent decades distilling down what works best?! I'm so obsessed with improving my soil and growing wonderful crops. I gift my surplus to the residents at the 'pensioner flats' in our town. And I plan to start a kid's gardening club when I get my garden fully developed, with the produce for consistent gifting into our community. Many thanks for the lessons, kind regards, Sharon (New Zealand).

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

I feel honoured Sharon to be recipient of your first comment! And what a great resource you are creating 💚

[@mickb6285]

Really interesting video, I always find self saved seed germinates better than bought. An old allotment gardener once told me that seeds have a memory and germinate better in the location they are set almost as if the parent plant optimizes the seed chemistry to suit the local conditions.

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

🌱 great thought

[@tommyjudd]

I'm an absolute novice to gardening and yet I moved to a farm this time last year. Your videos are incredibly helpful and I'd have saved a lot of time and effort had I watched them before I started playing farmer! Thank you, Charles! P.s. I came across you while looking into no dig approaches to farming.

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

Great to hear Tom, I wish you success 🥦

[@tateneve2264]

I remember watching this at the very start of my growing journey 2 years ago and thinking I didn't understand most of what was happening, year 3 of my growing food life now and watching this again I'm nodding along with the whole thing 🙌🏽 planted my 1st seeds of the year today in your module trays. Thank you for sharing your wisdom and experiences with the world 🙏🏽 🙌🏽 🤍 much love

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

Wonderful! I love how it makes sense to you now, thanks for sharing

[@tateneve2264]

@@CharlesDowding1nodig Thank you, growing food is definitely something that was missing from my life and I'm so happy that it's a main part of my life now. I feel so blessed with the food that grows and have never been healthier in my life 🙌🏽 discovering so many exciting varieties and new types of fruits, vegetables and herbs brings me so much joy, with help from you making the learning process more fun and enjoyable. Here's to this year's growing journey, let's see what magic will appear 🙌🏽🔮

[@evergreenangel]

Your videos are like fuel for my soul. Especially during our long, cold winters. The way I compost and the way I use my compost has completely changed thanks to your knowledge. Thank you so much for making these videos!!! You’re an inspiration!

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

Thanks Ashley 💚

[@robnicolson2747]

I've even using your module trays for a few years now and I can say they are hands down by far the best I've ever seen. Thanks as always and keep up the great work

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

Great to hear Rob

[@theladysgardenandhome]

Thank you, Charles for being such a patient and engaging teacher!

[@eddy8828]

Absolutely enjoyable to watch Charles Dowding videos for gardening. He is to me the best to watch.

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

Thanks very much, Eddy, that's kind

[@julesgoh]

I’m feel so privileged. My 12 little packets of new seeds just arrived and I started sowing a few of them. This is such a timely masterclass for me to “attend” as I start my exciting new sowing. Thank you Sir Charles

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

Wonderful!

[@johnman559]

@@CharlesDowding1nodig The Bob Ross of horticulture, I tune in just for the chilled out voice!

[@rodzinanapolu]

Thank you for the Polish subtitles Last year I was inspired by your vegetable garden, I made it on the balcony and this year I already have my own greenhouse, your films are helpful greetings from Poland ❤️

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

Wonderful! 💚

[@maryd4726]

Back in the 50's wooden trays from the greengrocers were often used and repaired to use year after year also for pricking, out a dozen tomatoes to a tray

[@MojeUprawy]

Wspaniale zaczynać sezon! Bardzo dziękuję za polskie napisy, pozdrawiam z ogrodu no dig, z Polski 🙋‍♀️🌸🌞🌻🌺

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

🥬🥕 thanks

[@azamshakoor3098]

Thanks sir Charles for inspiring us to grow our own food and sow seeds,, its past mid night here in India I watched your new video and you know what tomorrow morning gonna sow some seeds 👍🤗 truly inspiring you are thanks alot 🇮🇳❤️

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

So nice of you Azam. I feel humbled to be helping you, and so far away 😀

[@azamshakoor3098]

@@CharlesDowding1nodig 😀 I have been following you since long,, I started growing veggies inspired by you on our terrace,,cherry tomatoes ,, lettuce,, spinach,, cucumbers,, moringa, also known drumsticks all from seeds sowing as shown by you 🙏always a treat watching your videos @ your beautiful home acres 🤗👍

[@fedtstiftsplotter]

I know this is an old video by now, but I found it very useful. Many things could be pointed out, but I particularly like how you give your honest opinion, without droning on or making excuses for what you think; for example showing the difference between two types of compost. Some channels on KZbin would have milked that content into 10 minute content. Thank you for not doing that.

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

Glad it was helpful! I have too little time available :)

[@isobel8788]

Thank you for a fab video . I’m a total beginner newbie to it and really appreciate all your help & info . Wish me luck 😜😊

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

Good luck Isobel!! You will learn so much.

[@coreopolis]

Wonderful refresher, enjoyed it immensely, you’re looking quite well Charles.

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

Thank you kindly

[@markrodrigue9503]

I use to watch victory garden on weekend mornings and I enjoy your videos equally your great 👍

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

Thank you Mark

[@mistyfrogskiss4614]

I was so excited to be able to order the CD60 in North America! These arrived and now I'm wishing I'd ordered more. They are EXACTLY what I've been looking for. Thank you for jumping the hoops to make them available to the US and Canada.

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

Glad you like them! We are shopping more 😀

[@StayPrimal]

Tomorrow there will be a total eclipse over my house, what a coincidence that it is the same day that I wanted to sow my seeds. Hopefully it will bring good luck. Thank you Charles you're amazing!!! Good luck and have fun this season professor.

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

Oh wow! It's a powerful moment.

[@mudoh2131]

Thanks as always Charles. never fail to learn something from every video I watch. Your books and online courses are amazing. School a wealth of knowledge that you share with us.

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

Great to hear! 🥦

[@nnewtoncooks]

Charles Dowding thank you so much for making a better seed tray! I only get 3 or 4 plantings before the cheap trays fall apart. As soon as you said you make them I went to the store and bought 4! You are an inspiration as always. Thank you for all you do to make this world a better place!

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

You are very welcome and many thanks

[@ximono]

This video is _packed_ with knowledge from decades of experience. Like home saved seeds I carefully collect it and store it well. When spring comes I give it the right conditions to germinate and grow. And all through the growing season I can harvest my own experiences, and lots of healthy food :) Thank you for sharing so generously!

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

Beautifully written, thanks

[@Machka0]

Thank you for the knowledge you share :) I plan to start my first no dig garden this year and grow my own veggies using this method. I remember when I was a child my mother and grandparents had a garden which I would be helping with, but it was done by digging the soil in the spring and weeding throughout the year, which was tedious. But growing food is very rewarding and precious, especially in this time and age :)

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

Best of luck and you are so right, now is the time, such a positive remedy in all ways, and no dig is way more fun

[@annadorothygerard4010]

Thank you for this video! Excited to get your trays in the US! Already preordered. I like the word “clumplet”and am going to try to find opportunities to use it :) It’s 10degrees Fahrenheit this morning in Indiana and I love the planning stage and knowing that warmer planting season is coming. I multisowed my onions last year and LOVED it. (First time growing onions) This year I want many many more little clumpets of onions.

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

Yay! Thank you Anna, nice enthusiasm💚

[@tokidada1010]

Clumpets

[@walkaboutjesusradio]

@@CharlesDowding1nodig sir, where can I order your trays?

[@laurelglenfarmswebb1019]

An absolute gardening legend! I learn so much from you. XO

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

I'm so glad! 😀

[@sarahrickman6609]

I'll have to remember that. I'm starting some seeds in 2 liter pop bottles and remove the labels then I will make holes in the bottom and cut the top so that it makes a top I can close with the lid on. It'll be like a little green house. They are clear. Upcycle everything.

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

Nice idea Sarah

[@panienszczyzna]

Hello Charles, I just started sowing my broadbeans (home saved) into deep pots, indoors. I pre-germinated the broad bean seeds in a small basin with water (soak them, drain them, soak them, drain them and so forth until germination occurs some days later). I do the same with peas but I then sow them directly into the soil in mid March, weather permitting. I have noticed, the peas dont appear above ground until end of april - early may...which means even after germanation, they spend a couple of months underground before appearing above soil level. Anyway, my broad beans will stay indoors until they appear above the compost in the deep pots, then I will put them into a cloche outdoors until the soil is soft enough to transplant them...but...I will do my best to still protect them from cold winds and so forth. Thanks for this video. Oh. last year, Eleanora broad beans were spectacular in comparison to Aquadulce which produced but was leggy when transplanted and just did not recover. Thanks again.

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

Such dedication! That is interesting about the Eleonora beans, and I should like to grow a different variety but then I cannot save seed because of cross pollination. Aquadulce always does well here.

[@Agui007]

Thank you very much Charles for making us aware of digestate. Gosh I never knew! I love your greenhouse!! 😍

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

You are welcome, thanks

[@don5125]

Thank you so much for doing these vids. They are so helpful to a novice like me and encouraging to😇👍

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

I'm so glad thanks

[@laurazunigatorres4979]

Gracias Charles, acá en mi país estamos con mucho calor, con siembra directa por todos lados.😂💚💚💚💪

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

Tan diferente, agradable de escuchar!

[@monsurbanpatch]

tHANK YOU FOR ACTUALLY TEACHING US AND NOT FLUFFLING ON FOR 30 MINS AND THENTEACHING NOTHING LIKE SOME OTHER CHANNELS. i APPRECIATE IT SO MUCH AS I CAN'T AFFORD TO PAY FOR COURSES OR EXPENSIVE PRODUCTS ETC. I USE WHAT I CAN FIND ON MARKETPLACE OR BY THE ROADSIDE FOR FREE AS MUCH AS I CAN. SOIL IS MY MOST EXPENSIVE ISSUE ATM LOL

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

Glad to help. Hope you can make some compost :)

[@billytingen3567]

What a pleasure. I am so appreciative of what you do and that you have been so instrumental in teaching so many about the Best Practices of Gardening and with that sly smile, saying Ok, Have a Go at it!! Your Greenhouse is very Beautiful. On a separate thought, I find it very enjoyable watching your videos because your Garden is always clean and orderly. It gives one a very peaceful feeling. Cheers my Friend from Kentucky, USA.

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

Many thanks Billy and I hope the adverse weather events miss you this year! Yes a tidy garden is a joy.

[@bobbycarr2319]

as many others have said in the past and im sure will well into the future; thanks so much for sharing your life's story of gardening with all of us. you have given so many of us new tools and methods for our gardens , enriching our lives with plentiful harvest and high quality foods. thanks again so much for taking the time to share . this year will be the first complete no dig year at our new property we just closed on =) .

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

So nice of you to comment Bobby, thank you and I wish you lots of success in your new property, that sounds exciting

[@JulianJP21]

Thanks for all MASTER very very appreciated 🤝

[@sjnealeservices8549]

Thank you Charles. I use toilet rolls for my runner beans. I plant them with the toilet roll as it composts. Saves me buying another module tray.

[@hands2hearts-seeds2feedamu83]

Yes, I am using them as well. I used it last year for my tomatoes and pepper SEEDS. Worked out really well for me.

[@laurelaverill6615]

“Clumplet”! This is my new favorite word ☺️

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

😅

[@carolined5929]

Thank you so much, so now I know why my seeds failed in the tunnel, I'll sow again and keep in the house until they are up!

[@BarryAndMargaret]

Wonderful videos, very well done. I was very disappointed to see that the 60 cell trays are initially selling in the US for twice the $5 UK price. Oh well, my old crummy trays still do the job even though they don’t match the quality of these. I commend you for these great instructional videos. Thank you!

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

Cheers Barry. The $ price equivalent to our £5.50 is $7.43. Good luck running your old ones 🌱

[@BarryAndMargaret]

@@CharlesDowding1nodig Actually 4.45 pounds =$5.99 at today’s exchange, so my $5 was a bit low and your $7.43 is a bit high. Here is the UK listing for your tray from today. A very nice looking tray I should add, the large holes so you can punch out the plugs with your finger is clever. Charles Dowding 60 Cell £4.45 Specification Tray Size (mm): 350 x 210 x 44 Tray Weight (kg): 0.300 Cell Size (mm): 29.5 Cell Volume (cm³): 21 Plants per m²: 815 Drainage Hole Diameter (mm): 14

[@lisabevans8107]

Smile Charles! All but 1 of my plants survived the snow and crazy weather!!! It's really because you teach us what to do when. Tyvm! Hagd.

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

How wonderful, and thank you Lisa

[@Al12Al1]

Fair play Charles. Nice refresher video before spring arrives

[@ArkansasWoodcutter]

Thank you for sharing these wonderful thoughts from the conservatory.

[@squange20]

Hi Charles. I came across your videos via an NZ website, and must say I’m hooked. I lived in the UK for many years where we had very clayey soil, and being quite young and inexperienced then, we tried growing a few fruit trees, roses and vegetables, but failed miserably with the veg. Now years later in NZ, we’ve escaped the city and moved to a rural area where we get quite mild weather with lots of rain, where the grass is always lush, but the weeds taking over as quick as we’ve weeded. I’m following your videos and hopefully this time we will get it right. Thank you for the wonderful information and tips.

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

Great to hear and I wish you ease! I can imagine the weed growth otherwise

[@Mr_James_Richard]

His videos and close ups are very well done. I like this guy! Thanks for your kind approach and wisdom. 🤗🌱

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

Glad you like them James!

[@tanyagray9097]

Not only do I learn so much from your content, but I also love listening to you speak. I find your voice so soothing and calming to listen to. Thank you for everything you share with the world Mr. Dowding.

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

Thank you Tanya and I'm happy to read this, partly because I'm just recording an audiobook about no dig gardening! It will be available by May we reckon.

[@maironstofel8190]

While some channels create a 5-minute video with the title "everything you need to know for...", this chanel post a half hour introductory video. Nice work! Please continue doing these excellent contents.

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

Thanks 😀

[@waynesell3681]

Charles your such a patient man. Wonderful stuff!

[@joannagrover5549]

Brilliant, I realise where I have been going wrong- the multiple sowing idea saves so much space. Thanks.🥰

[@tarnr5713]

I have to say that I am seriously envious of your module trays, they look perfect. Here in NZ there is nothing comparable, anything even remotely close is imported and REALLY expensive

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

We hope to ship them to a distributor in Oz if that helps

[@glenoogardens3706]

Really happy to see that Containerwise seem to be happy to deliver your trays to Northern Ireland! I ordered a bunch! I was beginning to feel quite isolated from gardeners in other parts of the country, finding it increasingly difficult to source seeds etc from mainland UK. I was looking forward to trying your trays and am encouraged by being able to order them. Best wishes for 2022, Charles :)

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

Wonderful! I feel sorry for you guys, you've borne the brunt of the difficulties of you know what! And I'm delighted to hear this.

[@magda191919]

I'm starting now. Mr. Dowding, your posts give me great joy !

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

Thanks, wonderful!

[@michellel3348]

Thank you for great info on sowing seeds, I’m a pure newbie starting out this year and starting from scratch. I look forward to watching the rest of your videos🙌😊🌱

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

I like that "pure" newbie! and good luck Michelle

[@michellel3348]

My Irish accent coming out there😂 Thank you 🙌🌱

[@coreopolis]

Downloaded that one for frequent viewing 😁

[@OurEcoLife]

Great explanation as always. One thing that I should mention is that animal manures can also go in the methane digesters. You've already done a great video on the dangers of broad leaf herbicides in manure which leads one to think that this might explain the results from your broad bean trial. If there was manure in the digester the herbicides could survive the process and get into the compost.

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

That is a good point. In fact the producers of this compost told me that it's all plant material, however it's one reason why I sowed broad beans because of how they would show if there is pyralid weedkiller in there, and it looks like there is no weedkiller damage, so much as.perhaps an imbalance of available food

[@OurEcoLife]

@@CharlesDowding1nodig I've done a bit of digging (ha,ha) for information. Obviously I don't know exactly what vegetable matter was used in the digester but if it's straw, wood chips and other woody material that is very low in Nitrogen and mineral content, then that is something to watch out for. We should be aware that it's probably fine for mulching beds but needs something else mixed in for growing in pots, to make up for lack of nutrients. I'm afraid as suppliers are moving away from peat and using substitutes, we're going to hear more similar complaints.

[@pria7538]

Thank you Charles and team for finding a way to distribute your trays in the US. Just ordered. Would love to see your books on this side of the pond as well (not Amazon). You’ve been a blessing to this woman who wondering what to do with her land. I’ve watched and learned from you for years and cannot express how fond I am of your temperament, teaching style and charisma. Mwah!

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

How nice of you to write, thankyou. Chelsea Green sell my books www.chelseagreen.com/writer/charles-dowding/ Good luck with your land!

[@joelcathey]

I’ve never washed/sanitized my old seed trays. This year I decided I would since I see so many KZbinrs saying it’s absolutely crucial. Now you’re saying I don’t have to! Not sure which advice to listen to, but I’ll probably continue to not wash them because I simply don’t want to. Perhaps if I have issues at some point I’ll reconsider.

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

Unwashed, increases microbes in the new compost 😀

[@centraltexashomestead-mike4956]

Wonderful channel Charles! We have been gardening here in central Texas over 30 years. It's a much different climate, very hot so we use techniques that work well. The spring start here in March 15th. Temperature will start to get into the 90's in May and then 100's. We have started some of our spring seed now and have a large window in our mud room with a heater and LED grow light. The plants are doing very well. We enjoy the channel and are always learning.

[@kathrynmettelka7216]

Also in Central Texas, Austin, so I'm a city gardener. 1ve already direct.seeded bachelor buttons and lettuce and have some snapdragons seeds germinated on the front porch. We did have some freezes, but nothing serious. I've also used clear gallon jugs for winter sowing, which is nice for people without greenhouses or basements with grow lights. Cheap and easy to start a garden for cut flowers. The bees and my neighbors will be happy.

[@centraltexashomestead-mike4956]

@@kathrynmettelka7216 We are in Leander north of Austin. We are ready for spring!!!!!

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

Thank you and I'm delighted to be able to help, and so impressed to see two central Texans swapping notes here! Such a different climate!

[@centraltexashomestead-mike4956]

@@CharlesDowding1nodig We are taking a trip and visiting the Cotswold in the next year.

[@RafsKitchenGardenChannel]

Thanks very interesting experiment with digestate, I also usually want to grab at least one bag of the best compost I can get each season just for the young seedlings it makes all the difference.

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

Best of luck finding that, you are right

[@farmyourbackyard2023]

I am literally standing at my kitchen counter pricking out seedlings into your module trays! I love them and can’t wait to see how my plants do this year.

[@mfhmonkey]

I just planted up a tray of salads and radishes.

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

That is awesome! Thanks

[@lindaellin559]

Thanks Charles -great video! I always over water my seedlings - thanks for the reminder - I’ll try to ease off. Just about to start my seedlings for the Aussie winter season that’s coming! Cheers

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

Good luck with that Linda

[@sarahdyer1967]

Thanks for the new video - this one is really helpful. I use your module trays and they are so easy to take the little seedling out and transplant. Third year of no dig on my little plot and as determined as ever to get a good harvest. Can't get enough of these videos Charles, so much to learn. Last year most of all my crops were decimated by pests mostly slugs and caterpillars, so hoping for another video on these little rascals.🙂

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

Thank you Sarah and sorry to hear that about the slugs, we shall see about a video. Glad you like the trays

[@DrDianeDAddie]

I think this was the best lecture on sowing seeds that I've ever heard. Brilliant!

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

Glad it was helpful!

[@olgasmile6977]

Как всегда прекрасное видео!👍 Очень приятно смотреть на вас за работой😄

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

My pleasure!

[@robertling9872]

Thank you Charles for another beautiful video with lots of wise tips and information about NoDig gardening.

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

Glad you enjoyed it Robert

[@juliaschofield847]

I hacksawed my 60’s into all sorts of sizes. I should have waited! The shape does give excellent results. Thanks for such a comprehensive video. I’ve been vegetable growing over 20 years now, and got very careless about sowing, and things have got a bit hit and miss. Too much water, not enough water. Too soon, too much heat, not enough light, old seeds, overheated damp seeds etc. etc. This has been very timely to remind me to give more attention and care to the most important part of the whole operation.

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

Well, you are very innovative Julia and thanks so much for your comment, and all your lovely comments over many months and years! Have a great 2022, from the ground up

[@sheelaghomalley3292]

I have planted all my veg seeds into your module seeds from Quickcrop in Ireland. I love that I will never have to buy anymore plastic module trays. Apart from me of yours of course as I need more for supply

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

Sounds great Sheelagh!

[@insurmountablemind2467]

Hi Charles, I hope you are healthy and safe. Your videos are fascinating, your mouth is like a fountain of knowledge

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

Thank you that's nice, and I'm keeping really well, staying out of the fray so to speak, it's pretty quiet here!

[@MsJuliah1]

I noticed a mistake I made with my plantings; - when starting a large tray of seedlings,(72 modules), don’t sow items in a single tray with vastly different sprouting times! Because when it’s time to lift the cover slower growing varieties aren’t up,! If I leave the tray covered to nurture those seeds, my other sprouts get “leggy”. 😑

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

Thanks for the info Julia

[@mwmingram]

Perfectly-timed.

[@pixi8690]

Sir, your channel is so informative and relaxing an absolute pleasure to watch your videos. This year is my first year ever that I am going to try to grow a lot of my own vegetables, a list of a whopping 25 different varieties in a space at approximately 15 square meters (maybe a bit overly ambitious) I have already put some in home made mini grow houses, the thing that surprised me the most that I put red cabbage seeds in 5 days ago and they have grown a good 4-5 cm already. they sit in my windowsill where the heater is underneath it so they stay nice and toasty, the one thing that is isn’t doing so well Is my spinach. they came up fast but are now dying off almost as fast. They are in an egg carton 3 per hole and are not real wet I spray them twice every day with water to keep them slightly moistened also in my windowsill.

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

Good luck with that, it sounds just possible as long as they're not too many squash plants! Your spinach is probably damping off, from the leaves being moist all the time. They want to be dry mostly, especially at this time of year when there's not much sunshine. It won't be long before you need to be planting out some of those things, best not sow too early unless you have full light somewhere to prevent long stems.

[@pixi8690]

@@CharlesDowding1nodig thank you 😊 I’m planning on 2 or 3 pumpkin plants, and those are going to get trellised. Some of the things I’m gonna put in containers hopefully I’ll get about 10% of what we eat this year (my goal) as for the spinach I’ll water less see wat that does . If that doesn’t work I’ll stick them right outside and keep my fingers crossed they will come up 😄My yard has full sunlight from 11:30 till sundown. during the summer It gets unbelievably hot there.

[@pascalxus]

this video is a keeper! definitely one to come back to time and again. Thank you.

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

Great to hear Pascal, happy sowing

[@mryantaylor]

Thank you! for sharing your experience and wisdom. It means so much to someone that's dad had no interest in gardening. All the knowledge of my grandpa, an avid gardener, never got passed down. I feel like I'd be completely lost without youtube and creators like you.

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

You are so welcome Ryan and I have noticed this a lot, a whole generation missed it and the sharing. Nice to connect.

[@richardparker9344]

Thank you for everything you have done with this channel. You have really change my life more than you know.

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

Happy to hear that Richard, rock on!

[@aliciathompson7721]

I am sewing seeds thank to your site. You restored my planting faith lol

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

Wonderful to hear Alice, have a lovely time 🌱

[@stevendowden2579]

another great video charles

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

Glad you enjoyed it Steven

[@naomi2646]

Thank you, enjoyed the visit and helpful tips.

[@mudoh2131]

I learn something new with each video, than you. Indeed I generally learn something new with each re-watching of one of your videos! lots to aspire to.

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

Thanks, it's great to hear!

[@woutmoerman711]

I believe the best before date in the Netherlands is specified as a 70% germination point. This quite fits my own findings. But not only does the germination suffer if the seed is old, the number of stunted or weak seedlings also increases.

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

I so agree Wout. We also are on 70%, which is however achieved in the conditions of perfect warmth, not in a garden!

[@Jardin-de-invierno]

Always love your videos so much…switching to the no dig method this year upcoming season…very exciting

[@jellojoe00]

Pricking out is THE best way to grow lettuce. Pick the strongest and fill every cell. Thanks Charles!

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

😀

[@estelasantillan787]

Hola maestro Charles Dowding muchas gracias por compartir todo lo que sabe me sirve de maravilla para mí cultivo ,no es tarea fácil pero tampoco difícil si tengo un maestro como usted , abrazo enorme desde 🇦🇷 muchas bendiciones

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

¡Qué alegría leer esto Estela, y gracias por tu comentario!

[@estelasantillan787]

@@CharlesDowding1nodig se lo merece Señor 👏👏 gracias por escribirme en castellano es una alegría inmensa,🤗 se lo agradezco mucho , abrazo grande

[@daves9452]

Charles, thanks for the knowledge. I just used your method to prick out about 200 lettuce seedlings. What a concept!

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

Haha thanks, lettuce abundance in your area this spring and early summer 🥬

[@barbararoyal6139]

I have learned from watching your videos. I appreciate how you present the information you share. Thank you🌱☀️

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

I'm so glad Barbara, thanks

[@elainerichardson3928]

This is just fantastic. Thanks so much. Having not got on with the digital version of your calendar, ( probably my fault), this is really helpful. Am so excited about trying new ways nit only succession cropping but now intercropping. 🥰

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

Thanks Elaine🌱

[@annefinlay-baird7006]

Just watched this again. Always so good to refresh and these are really informative and inspirational. Thank you Charles

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

My pleasure!

[@BlackDogDesigns]

Sow happy to see Charles and get to sowing seeds🌱

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

🥂

[@sourcecreator2222]

Another excellent video Charles, cheerio!

[@margacarey5267]

watching from Melb.Australia started my garden bed last year after watching all your videos, I started from a pot of cabbage. Now i got heaps to harvest!thank you helps me a lot growing my own fresh veggies❤️ God Bless you

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

That is awesome, and health giving, happy harvests!

[@irenemauro1347]

Very happy to see that there is a North American distributor for the trays. Still hoping for a Canadian distributor as after shipping and extra duties, the trays could potentially be $20-25 each. I am counting down days until planting! I find we are about a week ahead of you in the PNW. Last frost date is over a month ahead of you. Shows how gardening zones are only one part of the story as we are 7b.

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

That would be cool, and fascinating

[@ashagray1135]

I am eagerly awaiting your propagation trays !

[@HannaARTzink]

Such helpful advice as not to put even slightly damp seeds back to a packet. Thank you.

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

Thanks. You bet!

[@sherylwhited7380]

SO happy your modules are now available in the US!!! Just preordered mine - many thanks.

[@rebeccawhite2402]

Thank you Charles. Don't forget to label your seeds!

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

😅

[@rsbhomevideos]

I came to ask about labeling. With such small modules, how do you label?

[@rebeccawhite2402]

@@rsbhomevideos Just push a label (plastic or wood) into the end cell. I used a 40 cell tray and each column of five cells I sowed different seeds in each, which gave me eight different types of seed in one tray.

[@kennethcope7266]

@@rsbhomevideos I use lollypop sticks bought from a craft shop

[@Heather-dp5qb]

Thank you Charles. Great to hear that the 15-cell version of your module trays will be available soon. I can’t wait.

[@Heather-dp5qb]

My 15-cell module trays arrived yesterday, just what I needed. I thought I might have to buy more drip trays, but I found that these 15-cell modules balance perfectly on mushroom containers (the plastic ones from supermarkets). As they are suspended, the roots will still be air-pruned. Perfect. Great design: thank you Charles and Containerwise.

[@grazynatretter7885]

Viele gute Ratschläge,Vielen Dank dafür.👍🙂🥬🥒🥦🧅🍅

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

Macht mich glücklich 🌱

[@ThatBritishHomestead]

Always love your videos they are so chill! Like a brain massage! And promoting not having to wash the pots love it! :) your green house is so beautiful.

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

Thank you so much - and I'm happy the greenhouse is still there after today's winds!

[@ThatBritishHomestead]

@@CharlesDowding1nodig don’t I’m going to see mine in the morning lol a few are smashed to bits in our plot!

[@geesgardeningclubuk5247]

A nice relaxing dose of Charles

[@Snacktime12345]

I appreciate your info and energy you seem like the sweetest guy ♥️

[@CharlesDowding1nodig]

I appreciate that!