How to Make a Seed Bed

• The concept of a seedbed is a specially prepared bed used to grow plants in a controlled environment before transplanting them into the allotment. 
• A seedling bed is used to increase the number of seeds that germinate. 
• Once the seedlings have matured in the seedling bed, they are then transplanted into a larger bed or a garden.

The preparation of a seedbed may include:

• The removal of debris. Insect eggs and disease spores are often found in plant debris and so this is removed from the plot. 
• Stones and larger debris will also physically prevent the seedlings from growing.
• Levelling. The site will have been levelled for even drainage.
• Breaking up the soil. Compacted soil will be broken up by digging. This allows air and water to enter, and helps the seedling penetrate the soil. 
• Smaller seeds require a finer soil structure. The surface of the soil can be broken down into a fine granular structure using a rake.
• Soil improvement. The soil structure may be improved by the introduction of organic matter such as compost or peat.
• Fertilizing. The nitrate and phosphate levels of the soil can be adjusted with fertilizer. If the soil is deficient in any micro nutrients, these too can be added.
• The seedlings may be left to grow to adult plants in the seedbed, perhaps after thinning to remove the weaker ones, or they may be moved to a growing bed as young plants.