It works much like growing seeds in a plastic seed tray, without the tray.
Peat, a byproduct of swamps and bogs, is controversial because the harvesting has a dramaticenvironmental impact.
Some people have had success with other mediums like coconut coir, but those people do not include me.
The other major drawback to soil blocking is the actual blocking: Its a pain in the ass.
Now, I regard blocking as a necessary evil each year that takes a lot of energy and soil.
Still, the results speak for themselves.
Soil blocks performexceptionally wellin tests against seed trays.
Step one: Get a soil blocker
The first thing youll need is a soil blocker.
There are all kinds of blockers on the market now, and many are inexpensive.
Soil blockers come in different sizes and layouts.
But most people are going to want to start withtwo-by-two-inch blocks.
A basic blocker will spit out four of these blocks at once.
Different kinds of plants at different stages all need different soil.
This is perfect for seed blocking, as long as that mix also includes peat or coconut coir.
I was able to make 100 blocks from a 12-quart bag.
Empty the bag into a bin or other watertight container, and mix it with water.
Soil can absorb an absurd amount of water; you want the soil wet, but not sopping.
Grab a handful of the mix, and squeeze it in your hand.
Does it clump together?
If so, youve got enough water.
If not, add more until it does.
Ive seen setups with standard1020 traysand setups withcafeteria trays.
The blocks sit right next to one another, so a 1020 tray can hold 50 blocks.
A cafeteria tray, depending on its size, can hold much more.
Step five: Start blocking
Now lets get down to actual blocking.
This pushes soil into the blocker.
Swiveling the blocker left and right while pressing against the bottom of the bin compresses the soil.
After a few passes, lift the blocker upside down, and check that the four chambers are full.
Push the blocker against the tray, while slowly depressing the handle and lifting up.
Its just soil; it will crumble apart.
The blocks are delicate at this stage but not immovable, if youre gentle.
Now, start all over, and dispense more blocks.
Keep going until you have as many as youd like on that particular tray.
At this point, its time to plant some seeds.
Treat each block like a cell in a seed tray.
Plant one or two tomato seeds, or a bunch of carrot seeds, or a single pumpkin seed.
Cover the seed up with some extra seed mix.
The soil needs heat, so place your tray on a heated seed mat.
The blocks will soak up the water and remain moist, ensuring germination.
The seeds need humidity, so covering the blocks with a plastic dome will ensure theres enough moisture.
Along the way youll want to choose one seedling per block, and cut the other seedling away.
