Seed Germination under Cloches

Gardeners who have not used cloches before cannot believe the difference that they can make to germination, and in consequence to seed saving.

If the cloches are put into position 10 days or a fortnight before sowing the seed, the soil is warmed, and the surface can be got down to and extraordinarily fine tilth; a much higher percentage of seed germination is then obtained. (The packet may state that the germination percentage is as high as 80 percent, but remember that germination tests are done under ideal conditions, and with cold, damp, a poor seedbed and so on, germination may easily be reduced to 30 or 50 percent).

Because of the soil-warming properties of cloches, seed sowing is possible in the winter months. Sowings of certain vegetables are made year after year with guaranteed success under cloches. It is of vital importance, however, to get the glass in into position 7 to 10 days before sowing, particularly in the winter.

Cloches allow seed-sowing to be carried out both early and late. They are useful when seeds are to be sown in June and July; with French beans, for instance, the protection they provide enables the crop to go on producing tender pods until the end of October. From sowings made in the winter and early in the year, cloches ensure that crops are available early, at a time when vegetables and flowers are scarce.

Plants which germinate quickly are far less likely to bolt (i.e. go to seed), particularly in the case of endive and lettuce, than plants which are produced from seed which has germinated slowly. Experienced gardeners are most anxious to ensure immediate germination in the case of all their seeds, for nothing is more disheartening than sudden bolting just when plants should be ready for use. Cloches, of course ensure quick germination.