Seeding

Each year the Shand Greenhouse sows two main crops. The first one, known as the Current Crop, is sown in January and the second, known as the Overwinter Crop, is sown in June. All the trays used at the greenhouse are a standard size, however the number of cells in each tray can vary. The trays are filled with a media mix consisting of peat moss, perlite, dolomitic limestone and wetting agents. The media is mixed and moistened in a large machine which agitates and distributes the media. It in then dropped into the "filler". The filler uses one conveyor to drop media on top of the trays. Another conveyer moves the trays along under the flow of media. This conveyor vibrates to help remove air pockets from the cells. It also sweeps the tops of the trays to ensure a smooth planting surface.

Species seeds that are less than about 5mm across and have not germinated can be sown using our mechanical seeder. The seeder can be set to put between 1 and 9 seeds in a set number of cells. There is an optical sensor that counts the seeds as they enter the machine. An air compressor provides the pressure needed to deposit the seed within the trays. Any seeds that germinate before sowing or are too large for the seeder are sown by hand. A casual labour crew may be enlisted for this process.

The final machine required to complete the sowing process is the "gritter". The gritter spreads a layer of fine, sterilized gravel over the seeds in the trays. This gravel or grit is used to prevent seeds from being displaced by wind or water, to keep moisture in the cell, and to prevent growth of algae and other pests.

The completed trays are placed in the greenhouse for germination and growth.