Should you grow plants from seeds or to purchase seedlings from a store? Each has its own set of advantages and challenges, and the choice often depends on factors such as skill, cost, time, disease resistance, and pest management. This article discusses these aspects to help you make an informed decision.
The decision to grow plants from seeds or to buy seedlings ultimately depends on your individual circumstances and gardening goals.
If cost and variety are your primary concerns, and you enjoy the process of nurturing plants from the very beginning, starting from seeds is an excellent choice.
However, if you are looking for convenience, speed, and a quick start to your garden, buying seedlings might be the way to go.
Costs
Growing plants from seeds is generally more cost-effective than buying seedlings, but only if you are planting a large garden.
A single packet of seeds, which often contains dozens or even hundreds of seeds, usually costs just a few pounds. However if you are only needing a few plants the cost is probably about the same.
Time in the Year
Growing plants from seeds requires patience. The process of starting seeds can take several weeks or even months, depending on the plant species.
This means that you need to plan well in advance and start your seeds early enough to ensure they are ready for the growing season.
If you are reading this and the planting season is now around the corner you may not have enough time this year and would be better off purchasing seedlings from a local nursery.
Diseases and Pests
One of the benefits of growing plants from seeds is the reduced risk of introducing pests into your garden. Store-bought seedlings often carry diseases and pests that may not be immediately apparent but can spread it onto your other plants very easily. By starting with seeds, gardeners have more control over pests and diseases.
If you decide to purchase seedlings, it is crucial to inspect them carefully. Look for signs of disease, such as discoloured leaves, wilting, or unusual spots, and check for pests like aphids or spider mites.
Your Skills and Patience
Growing plants from seeds can be a rewarding experience, providing a sense of accomplishment. It allows gardeners to experiment with a wider variety of plants, including rare or heirloom varieties that may not be available as seedlings.
If you are a beginner let that not stop you from enjoying the process of sprouting a seed. Do your research, and start small. Focus on larger seeds which are easier to sprout, for example tomatoes, cucumbers, beans or courgettes. Make sure that your seed stays moist at all times, and give the seedling plenty of sunlight as it begins to grow.
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