Mixture for germinating seeds?

I live in a remote area (tropical) and am having trouble germinating some flower seeds. I have available a fairly good topsoil, sand, and a composted mix sold in bags.


What is the best proportion of these that will give me the best results?

Mixture for germinating seeds?
I don't think topsoil is good for germinating seeds cause it can cause fungus.


For germinating seeds, you will need 1/3 pearlite, 1/3 vermiculate, and 1/3 Peat Moss (Canadian Sphagnum)
Reply:This works well for most seeds,


1/4 corse sand, 1/4 peat moss, 1/4 vermiculite, 1/4 perlite.


also use a heating mat to provide even heating of the soil. keep the soil evenly moist, and give either sun light or artificial light as some seeds need light to germinate. also, some seeds don't need buried, check your seed packet, many flower seeds need sprinkled on the surface of the soil.
Reply:There are several things to consider about germinating seeds. First, NO FERTILIZER when you are trying to get them to germinate.





I go to a garden store and buy peat pellets which expand once wet. Peat retains moisture well, so it'll stay damp for a long time. The peat pellets come in containers that look like egg holders, and have a top that helps keep moisture and heat in.





You can also buy a gel that will help you get your plants started.





Last, read the seed package. It might be that your plants need warmer soil to germinate, in which case you'll need to buy a seedling heater or place your peat pellets on a radiator or hot water heater. Some plants actually need total darkness to germinate.





Hope that helps!
Reply:You can use the paper towel method. Wet a paper towel and ring it out so it is damp. place the seeds on the paper towel and fold it over them. Fold it enough to put in a sandwich size ziplock baggie. Check every couple of days until they sprout. Then plant in your favorite potting soil. Keep soil moist and your plant should be up in no time. Also check to see if the seeds need light to germinate. That may be your problem if you are covering them with soil. If they are suppose to be surface sown, they need light.

loops