In February, restraint is just as important as enthusiasm. Very few seeds should be sown this month, and as every gardener knows, patience is rewarded many times over.

Growing from seed offers huge benefits. Economically, a small packet can produce dozens of plants for the price of a single shop-bought transplant. Yet it is the variety and choice that make sowing from seed truly alluring and addictive.

Before sowing, take stock of what you already have. Discard any damp or poorly stored seed, and if in doubt, perform a quick germination test. Good storage is key: cool, dry, and dark conditions, ideally around 4°C will greatly extend viability. Once you know your gaps, proceed with caution and prioritise Irish-grown seed, which is already adapted to Irish growing conditions. Seeds may seem inexpensive, but costs quickly add up, so it pays to order with a plan in mind.

Planning also extends to how and where seeds will be sown. Many crops do best in modules, which can be transplanted later with minimal root disturbance. Module trays offer a big advantage over flat trays, reducing the need to prick out seedlings. If buying new trays, invest in sturdy hard plastic rather than flimsy single-use options, which are neither economical nor sustainable.

Quality trays last for years. Cleaning them may not sound glamorous, but warm water and a few drops of tea tree oil transform the task into a mindful, almost meditative start as you anticipate the season ahead. Be sure to check trays for slugs and other larvae that may be taking refuge there over winter.

Matching seed to module size is equally important. As a rule of thumb, sow seeds at roughly twice their own depth and choose a module that allows the seedling to grow comfortably for at least four weeks. Deep-rooting crops, such as beans and sweet peas, need deeper modules or root trainers, while small seeds like lettuce, herbs, and tomatoes are surface-sown or barely covered and thrive in shallower modules. Getting this right reduces stress on the plants and avoids rushing seedlings on before they are ready.

Seed compost

Another essential is seed compost. Always choose peat-free, high-quality compost –Klassmann is a personal favourite. Just like children, plants benefit enormously from a good start in life. Fresh compost supports healthy growth for four to six weeks, ensuring nutrients haven’t degraded through storage.

A dedicated sowing station makes life far easier. A simple table where compost can be tipped out, loosened, and aerated with your fingers (much like mixing a cake) can be genuinely transformative. Compost should never be compacted – fill trays loosely, tap gently to settle, and top up gaps. Seeds need contact with compost, so create shallow indents using a finger for modules or a tamper for flat trays. Water trays with a fine-rose spray before sowing, then allow them to settle. Watering after sowing can dislodge seeds and undo precision placement.

Always label trays using a waterproof pencil, noting the crop variety and sowing date. In addition, keeping a diary of sowing records will pay dividends, especially helping with planning for next year.

All seeds need warmth, moisture, and air to germinate, and light to grow successfully. A sunny windowsill or hot press is not always practical, so a propagation bench in a greenhouse, tunnel, or bright room works best. Heated mats with a thermostat provide consistent bottom warmth and are well worth the investment, while fleece is used to cover seedlings, protecting them from sudden cold snaps.

Care doesn’t end once seeds are sown – regular checking, careful watering, and good hygiene are all essential. Capillary matting placed under trays distributes water evenly: as the compost begins to dry, seedlings draw moisture up from the sponge-like mat, maintaining consistent moisture without overwatering. Avoid soggy compost by letting trays dry slightly before rehydrating from below, and ensure good airflow to reduce disease. Seedlings should be checked at least twice daily.

Growing from seed is rewarding, though undeniably time-consuming. Use good-quality seed, keep propagation area’s immaculate clean and give plants the attention they deserve. It may sound whimsical, but research shows that gentle stroking of seedlings encourages sturdier growth. And a few encouraging words certainly won’t do any harm either.

I’ve abandoned the garden over winter and my glasshouse and tools are in need of a proper spring clean – where should I start?

– Margaret Murphy, Co Sligo

Spring is the perfect time to give your gardening gear some attention before the season gathers pace. Start with tools – clean off soil and rust, sharpen blades, and replace any damaged handles. Well-maintained tools are safer, easier to use and far more efficient.

Check wheelbarrow tyres are inflated and inspect hoses, taps and irrigation systems for frost damage before they’re needed in earnest.

If you have a polytunnel or glasshouse, a thorough clean will make a remarkable difference. Washing glazing inside and out removes algae, improves light levels and instantly lifts the space.

I favour citrus-based garden disinfectants, which are effective yet safe for pets, wildlife and people.

Module sow for tunnel growing: tomatoes, peppers, aubergine and chillis.

Direct sow in tunnel bed or protected bed outdoors: coriander, pea-shoots, leeks for transplanting later.

Module sow for outdoor growing: broad beans, onions and shallots, coriander and Oriental salads, the latter will require fleece once planted out and can also be transplanted into tunnel if you have space.