The temptation was just too much ..

I'm sure there's still life in the old dog yet

 

Ah, but is he up to new tricks I wonder?
ZIGGY ??? !!!

 

Some lovely ideas here. You could also grow some Basil with her, then she can safely eat it.

 

I used to help my grandma by jumping on the snails.

 

Hey, you guys are fantastic and have given me loads of brilliant ideas that should keep her busy.

My camera isn't working so my daughter took a photo of my granddaughter on her phone with her new african violet - she loves it so much she even wants to take it to bed lol. I've put the pic in the competion at http://gardenerscorner.co.uk/forum/threads/monthly-photo-comp-february-2013.49608/#post-650101

 

The first of the aubrieta seedlings have germinated! I'm just like a big kid I am so excited. The question now is, when do I take them off the heat mat? None of the books I have say when to do this.

 

Right now Auntpol! As with all seedlings once you see the first appear above the soil remove them from the heat, or it will make them grow to quickly and become leggy.

 

Hi Sheal,
Thanks for that and done .... should I remove the propogator cover or leave it on?

 

No, providing you are keeping them indoors for the time being take that off as well, they need as much light as possible, but not direct sunlight, being so young they will just fry.

 

Thanks so much Sheal .. have taken the lid off

Tomorrow I intend to try sewing some thrift .. have to soak the seeds according to instructions ... another first for me

 

Mmmmm, instructions say soak in warm water for 6 - 8 hours. Does that mean keep the water warm for 6 - 8 hours or just put them in warm water and allow it to cool?

 

Tepid water and let it cool to room temp.
I know the feeling from your first post when you open a seed packet and think they have sold you dust !

 

Thanks for the info Harry. I am really enjoying my first ever season of sowing seeds but I must admit I have found some of it hair raising. I was shocked at the size of the aubrieta seeds and couldnt beleive it when I tried to shake them out evenly and the lot fell in one spot. And theres nothing can be done about it so I just have to wait and see what happens.

 

Lobelia bedding seed is a nightmare too Auntpol. Most gardeners have there own system for sowing seeds this small. I just tip some into the palm of my hand and use thumb and forefinger on the other hand to sprinkle them on the soil, they don't crush in the process.

Quite a few seed these days have soaking suggestions. I have not soaked any seeds in the twenty years I've been growing and had no germination problems. Okay, it might put a couple more days on germination but I'm prepared to wait.