Seeds in a roll! Farida’s space-saving trick took social media by storm
Farida Sober surprised many when she shared images of her creative method for pre-growing seedlings in seed rolls. The South Wales resident came up with the idea after struggling with a lack of space for starting her seeds—of course.
Hi, Farida. How did you come up with the idea of growing seedlings in rolls, and what’s the biggest benefit?
Residing in an urban area with limited growing space, I needed to maximize every inch. The seed snail rolls have proven instrumental in optimizing space and ensuring optimal seedling development, eliminating issues like root-bound seedlings.
Although the idea wasn't originally mine, I'm delighted to introduce it to fellow gardeners. This method is widely embraced by gardeners worldwide, and I'm truly humbled by the enthusiastic response it has received.
How long have you been starting seedlings in seed rolls?
I've been utilizing this method for four years now. Initially, I started with onions and leeks.
Which plants do you think are best suited to start in rolls?
This method has proven effective for a wide range of plants, particularly those with longer growing seasons or those requiring extensive propagation. However, I've found it's not as suitable for root vegetables.
What kind of compost do you use, and how much?
I start my seeds in an organic compost mix, ensuring a healthy start for my seedlings. I typically apply a layer of less than a centimeter of moist compost, providing adequate nutrients for seedling growth.
Usually, I add compost once roots become visible through the bottom of a snail and are also visible through the polythene wrapping. This indicates that the seedlings have established themselves and could benefit from additional nutrients to support their growth.
You wrap the compost in polyethylene foam, which is typically used for packaging, right?
Yes, indeed. I've found polyethylene foam to be the most effective material for this purpose, and often, I repurpose packaging materials to reduce waste. I have a stash of packing material that I try to give a second life. I love repurposing items whenever possible.
Have you tried other materials? Could old cotton sheets, newspapers, or wool or hemp fabrics work, too?
While I've primarily used polyethylene foam, I'm intrigued by the prospect of experimenting with alternative materials like recycled fabrics.
Are you worried that polyethylene foam could release microplastics into the soil and ultimately into the plants?
Concern for the environment motivates me to seek sustainable solutions. While I acknowledge the potential impact of microplastics, I prioritize repurposing materials and minimizing waste wherever possible.
What is the ideal size for the roll?
Based on my experience, rolls measuring around 15-centimeter (about 6 inches) wide are ideal for onions, leeks, and corn, while narrower, 10-centimeter rolls (4 inches) suit herbs, tomatoes, and peppers better.
You water the rolls from the top at first and then later from the bottom, right? Do the seedlings stay evenly moist?
Correct. Initially, watering from above encourages germination, while subsequent bottom watering ensures consistent moisture levels, preventing issues like root rot.
How many seedlings can you get from a single roll?
The number of seedlings per roll varies depending on the plant species and roll size. But you can overseed and remove and replant seedlings as they grow. Its very convenient and accessible in the roll.
Do you plant the seedlings from the roll directly into the ground, or do they still go into small pots first?
My goal is to streamline the gardening process, minimize maintenance, and optimize space utilization while ensuring the well-being of my seedlings within the seed snail rolls. To achieve this, I often plant the rolls directly into the ground, particularly within my polytunnel. The advantage of this approach is that the seedlings can remain in the rolls for extended periods, patiently awaiting transplantation. By eliminating the need for intermediate potting stages, I reduce labor and space requirements, allowing the seedlings to thrive within the controlled environment of the polytunnel until they're ready for their permanent outdoor home.
Which vegetables do you grow the most?
While I do enjoy cultivating a broad variety of vegetables, tomatoes and beans hold a special place in my heart. I preserve my harvest by canning or freezing, ensuring a bounty to enjoy throughout the winter months.
Do you still use more traditional seed-starting methods alongside the rolls?
Absolutely. Every year, I cultivate over 20 different tomato varieties, each with its unique characteristics and flavors. For these tomatoes, I still rely on traditional seed trays. The primary reason behind this choice is the challenge of effectively marking different tomato varieties within a single seed snail.
Finally, based on your Instagram account (@faridasober), it looks like you’ve revolutionized how many home gardeners think about starting seedlings with your seed rolls. How does that feel?
I'm genuinely delighted by the overwhelming positive response this technique has received. My aim is to empower more individuals to cultivate their own food, and I intend to continue sharing gardening insights and techniques to facilitate successful small-scale gardening endeavors.
