In mid-February I decided to try a new method of seed starting that I had seen on the internet. The new method is called a “seed snail” and is basically a rolled up bundle of potting mix with seeds. It is supposed to save on space when starting seeds, and also be beneficial for root development because it has a long, narrow section of potting mix held between two non-porous layers.

To start out, I cut up some bubble wrap into two sections, roughly 5×15 inches in size. I then got some potting mix nice and damp and picked out what seeds I wanted to try. I went with three different types of seeds, and in order to test out the seed snail I also started the same seeds in normal 3 inch pots and in an Epic 6 cell (standard seed starting pack).

The seeds I started were Red Russian Kale, Buttercruch lettuce, and my own home saved orange cosmos. Each type of seed went into each growing environment.

I spread the damp potting soil across the length of the piece of bubble wrap and then carefully rolled it up. I used two rubber bands to hold the end in place. I then carefully placed two of the types of seeds around each swirl and added a pinch of potting mix over top to cover them.

I then stuck in the labels and placed them on the tray with the “control” seeds in the more traditional pots. Everything will be going on a shelf by the window and I will also utilize a grow light so they all have the same environment.

I’m curious to see if this method works. The seed snails are taller than the pots, and since the seedlings will have a narrow space to grow in that should force the roots to head down to search for more soil. It’s reportedly easy to transplant seedlings out of, since you can unroll it and see the roots. Could be less damaging than having to dig up/dump the 3 inch pot and tease seedlings apart. Not sure what the results will be but I’m going to give it a try.

As of Feb 24 some of the seeds have sprouted, the lettuce and cosmos are doing well. The kale is currently lagging behind, not sure if the seeds are too old, but only a couple have come up so far.

Tiny lettuce seedlings

Home saved cosmos seeds are looking nice and healthy.