Frøsette

Frøsette is a horticultural term used in Norwegian to describe the act of placing seeds into a growing medium with the aim of germination. The word derives from frø (seed) and sette (to place). In practice, frøsetting covers both direct sowing in fields and the starting of seeds in controlled environments such as seed trays, plug trays, or small pots for later transplanting.

Direct sowing involves sowing seeds directly in the final growing location, typically where soil conditions and climate permit germination and growth without transplanting. Starting seeds indoors or in greenhouses allows for earlier germination, better control of germination conditions, and extended growing seasons, after which seedlings are transplanted when weather and soil quality are suitable.

Key factors influencing success include seed quality and viability, appropriate sowing depth (usually a few times the seed diameter), proper spacing between seeds or seedlings, soil temperature and moisture levels, light exposure, and protection from pests and diseases. Seedbed preparation, soil loosening, and fertilization can improve emergence rates.

Common practices include pre-sowing treatments such as soaking, scarification, or stratification when needed, and post-germination steps like thinning to the correct density, regular moisture management, and mulching to conserve moisture. In commercial horticulture frøsette is used in the production of vegetables, flowers, and crops requiring uniform germination and early establishment.

See also: sowing, transplantation.