Using compost to start seeds?

[skeeter9]

Can compost be used as a seed-starting medium instead of using a peat/perlite based medium?

 

[April Manier]

AS long as it's not hot. Make sure it's really composted.

You don't want weird microbial action in starts.

 

[Ariel301]

I use it and it works ok for me. I have trouble getting things to germinate inside, but it's more from the cold/lack of consistent temperature because no one wants to turn any heat on but me/lack of light/super dry climate/ my cat eating anything green that shows up, I don't think the compost is an issue.

 

[journey11]

It's also smart to bake in the oven any homemade seed starter soils, to kill off any diseases or fungi it might harbor (which would cause dampening off of seedlings or mold growth).

 

[skeeter9]

Thanks so much for the info. I think I will try it with storebought compost baked in the oven. My compost won't be ready for a while. Can't hurt to try, right?

 

[thistlebloom]

Just be prepared for a big stink Skeeter!

 

[skeeter9]

Well, maybe this isn't such a good idea then, since I will be starting my seeds indoors!!! I think I'll save my experiment until the weather warms and I can keep my stinky pots outside!!! LOL

 

[lesa]

If you are going to buy compost, I would recommend buying a soil less seed starting mix. I think you will have much better success....There must be some things you could direct seed, right now-in your zone??

 

[skeeter9]

Lesa, we are still getting heavy frost several times a week, so it's still too early to direct sew anything right now.

I ended up buying seed starter and my tomatoes came up in 5 days. Crazy! Hopefully they will turn into nice, strong plants.