Northern Queensland Permaculture

By the end of the lesson, participants will be able to identify factors that influence seed germination, prepare seeds for germination, and care for seedlings in a permaculture garden in the tropical climate of North Queensland.

45 minutes

1. Seeds
2. Seed trays or pots
3. Seed-raising mix
4. Spray bottles filled with water

Greet participants and briefly introduce yourself

• Briefly explain the core principles of permaculture
• Discuss the unique challenges and opportunities of gardening in a tropical climate
• Raising your own seedlings gives you control over the quality and variety of plants in your garden.

You can select plant varieties that are best suited to your area and soil conditions. Additionally, growing your own seedlings can be a cost-effective way to start a garden, as buying seedlings from a nursery can be more expensive. Raising your own seedlings also allows you to observe the entire life cycle of your plants, from seed to maturity, giving you a deeper understanding and appreciation of your garden.

• Explain the process of germination and its importance in plant life

• Discuss ideal temperature ranges for various seeds
• Explain the effects of temperature on germination rates and success

• Emphasize the importance of consistent moisture and proper drainage
• Discuss how to achieve ideal moisture levels for germination

• Explain the role of light in germination and how it affects different species
• Discuss how to provide adequate light for germinating seeds

• Explain the importance of seed-raising mix in germination
• Describe the characteristics of a good seed-raising mix

• Discuss the importance of using fresh and viable seeds
• Explain how to test seed viability

• Invite participants to share their experiences with seed germination

• Discuss suitable plant species for permaculture gardens in North Queensland
• Consider native species and popular permaculture plants

• Explain when and why to soak seeds
• Demonstrate how to soak seeds properly

• Explain how to scarify seeds
• Demonstrate scarification techniques

• Explain how to stratify seeds
• Discuss when and why stratification is necessary

• Guide participants in preparing seeds for germination

• Discuss the pros and cons of seed trays, pots, or direct sowing
• Explain how to choose the best container for each plant species

• Demonstrate how to fill containers with seed-raising mix

• Explain the importance of sowing seeds at the right depth
• Provide guidelines for sowing seeds of different sizes

• Emphasize the importance of labeling containers
• Demonstrate how to create clear and informative labels

• Explain how to use spray bottles to maintain moisture
• Discuss how to prevent overwatering and damping-off