Sowing

Sowing is the process of placing seeds in soil or another growing medium with the aim of germination and establishment of a crop or plant stand. It can refer to direct sowing in the field or sowing seeds in a nursery for later transplanting.

Preparation and timing: Successful sowing depends on soil condition, moisture, temperature, and seed quality. The seedbed should be weed-free, firm, and friable with adequate drainage. Timing varies by species and climate; many crops are sown in spring after frost risk, while cool-season crops may be sown in autumn. Some seeds require dormancy breaking treatments, such as stratification (cold treatment), scarification (roughening the seed coat), or pre-soaking.

Methods and depth: Direct sowing places seeds in the final site, often in rows or bands. Drilled sowing uses a seeder to place seeds at uniform depth and spacing. Broadcast sowing scatters seeds over the seedbed and is followed by light covering. Seed depth generally correlates with seed size: many seeds germinate best near the surface or at shallow depths, while larger seeds are planted deeper.

Spacing and thinning: Seeds must have sufficient space to grow; thinning or transplanting reduces crowding and ensures adequate light, water, and nutrients.

Care after sowing: Keep the bed evenly moist and protect seedlings from pests and birds. Weed control is important in the seedling stage. Some crops are sown directly and thinned as they grow, while others are started in nurseries and transplanted to final positions.