I'm no gardener, what I know is what I learnt from my Mom.

Plant at the right time of year for your specific area. Check the guide on the back of the seed packets. Plant seeds of annuals timeously so that they will flower in the anticipated flowering period. Sterilize homemade soil mix. If you are going to make your own seedling mix, it should be loose, open and free to draining.

Combine two parts sifted compost with one part coarse river sand, dampen and then sterilise to kill any weed seeds and fungal plants. To do so, microwave the mix on high for about one minute or pour boiling water over it or place in a covered foil tray and bake for 150 degrees for about an hour. If you are me, I usually go to the closest store and buy a bag of good garden soil.

Always pick the correct place to plant. Remember some seeds are more suitable for, and more easily raised, if sown in the bed. It is easier to spot weeds if seeds are sown in rows.

Use deep seedling trays. These should about 6-8 cm deep for plants with long tap roots or which dislike being transplanted like the wild forget me nots and iceland poppy.

Consider how big the seeds are. If the seeds are very small you can mix with sand and this way it gets distributed evenly.

Always water the seeds gently. Use a fine rose or soft misty spray. Too strong a shower can dislodge seeds and wash them all away into a corner.

More gardening tips go to Gardening 101