Seed tape is a clever way to pre-space tiny seeds like carrots, making the planting process far easier and more efficient. Carrot seeds are difficult to space consistently during direct sowing. By using seed tape, you eliminate the need for tedious thinning later in the season, as the seeds are already placed at the proper distance for optimal growth and a more uniform crop.
Necessary Supplies
You will need absorbent paper, such as single-ply toilet paper or narrow strips of newspaper, which will naturally break down in the soil. Gather your carrot seeds, a ruler or tape measure, and a small mixing bowl for the adhesive. The adhesive should be a non-toxic, water-soluble paste made from common kitchen ingredients.
Step-by-Step Assembly Guide
Prepare the non-toxic adhesive that will hold the seeds in place. A simple paste can be made by mixing two parts flour or cornstarch with one part water. Stir the mixture until it reaches a consistency similar to thick paint or white school glue, ensuring there are no lumps.
Prepare the paper strip for marking and seed placement. Unroll the toilet paper or cut your paper into strips about one to two inches wide. Lay the strip flat on a protected work surface and use a ruler and marker to indicate where each seed will be placed. For carrots, the recommended spacing is typically between one and three inches apart, so check your seed packet for the precise number.
Use a small tool, like a toothpick or a cotton swab, to apply a small dot of the flour paste onto each mark. The dot should be just large enough to hold the seeds but not so large that it soaks through the paper. Immediately after applying the paste, gently place two or three carrot seeds onto each dot. Placing a couple of extra seeds, known as “over-seeding,” helps guarantee germination at that spot.
Once the seeds are secured with the paste, you have the option to fold the paper strip lengthwise over the seeds, creating a sandwich effect for protection. If you choose not to fold it, simply leave the strip flat. Allow the entire seed tape to dry completely. This drying process prevents any moisture remaining in the paste from triggering premature germination or causing the paper to stick to itself when rolled up.
Using and Storing Finished Seed Tape
When you are ready to plant, prepare your garden bed by creating a shallow trench that is about one-half inch deep. The depth of the trench should match the planting depth recommended on your carrot seed packet. Unroll the finished seed tape and lay it directly into the prepared trench.
Once the tape is in place, cover it lightly with soil, ensuring no part of the paper is exposed to the air. Water the area thoroughly. This hydrates the soil for the seeds and begins the process of dissolving the paper and paste.
If you have made extra seed tape, proper storage is necessary to maintain seed viability. Roll up the dried tape gently and label it clearly with the seed type and the date. Store the rolled tape in a cool, dark, and dry location until the next planting season. Avoiding moisture and high temperatures will keep the seeds dormant and ready to sprout when they are finally placed in the soil.