It’s not a good idea to use rainwater collected from the roof of the house or the greenhouse to water seedlings. It can spread a number of pests and diseases.

Keep a full watering can in the greenhouse and allow the water to reach room temperature before using.

Always check the instructions on the seed packet for the right advice about the plants you are growing.

1.  

   Step 1.

   Fill several clean 7.5cm (3 in) flowerpots with John Innes Seed Compost. Lightly firm down. Water the compost using a watering can with a fine rose (nozzle) attachment.

2.  

   Step 2.

   Sow the seed directly onto the compost surface, spacing it as evenly as possible. Sprinkle a thin layer of compost over the top. Label carefully with the plant variety and the date.

3.  

   Step 3.

   Large seeds can be sown individually in small pots. Make a hole with a dibber or pencil and drop the seed into it. Cover over with compost.

4.  

   Step 4.

   Water gently and keep in a frost-free place until the seeds start to sprout and grow.

There are many other benefits to crop rotation too, legumes for example fix nitrogen in the soil whilst they grow and this is then available for the next crop. It is a good idea to follow these crops with leafy brassicas or potatoes which like a high level of nitrogen.

Potatoes also tend to smoother out weeds so they are unable to grow. Follow these with hard to weed veg such as onions.

Crop rotation does require organisation though and you need to be plan at least for the following 3 seasons. For the best results the further ahead you can plan the better.

1.  

   Step 1.

   Plan out the number of plants you want to grow in each planter. For large fruiting plants such as tomatoes, and peppers, three plants is the ideal number. For herbs and flowers you can use a few more plants and allow them to merge together for an attractive effect. Decide where you want your plants to be. Remember when planting several types of plants to keep the taller growing varieties towards the back and trailing ones at the front.

2.  

   Step 2.

   Shake up the Instant Planter to loosen the compost inside. Place it back on the ground and make cross cuts in the plastic layer of the planter where you want to put a plant. Loosen the compost inside with your fingers until it is crumbly.

3.  

   Step 3.

   Remove one plant from its pot and carefully push the root ball through the cross cut in the polythene, until the leaves are on the top and roots are nestling in the loose compost below. Make sure the roots are surrounded by compost and then fold back the corners of the polythene around the plant stem; this will help to conserve moisture inside the Instant Planter.

4.  

   Step 4.

   Finish planting all of the plants. Water the Instant Planter thoroughly and allow it to soak in for an hour. Then cut drainage slits in the bottom of the Instant Planter to allow any excess water to escape.

5.  

   Step 5.

   Place the Instant Planter in a heated greenhouse for the plants to flourish and grow on. Once all danger of frost has passed place the planted Instant Planter in a sunny spot outside and enjoy the fruits of your labour.

6.  

   Step 6.

   Tall plants such as tomatoes and peppers will benefit from some support to hold the weight of the developing fruit. Remember to feed plants throught out the growing season with either Nutri Plant Food or Nutri Fruit & Vegetable Food.