PREPARE A SEED BED

To ensure seeds germinate effortlessly, convert recently cultivated soil into a seed bed. Use a fork to break up large lumps and roughly level the surface – remove any stones that work their way to the surface. Rake the soil backwards and forwards in one direction until the clods have all gone and the soil has a fine, even finish – draw soil into hollows and break down any mounds. Next, rake in another direction, 90 degrees to the first. When you finish, you should have a flat and even surface, where the texture of the top 5-7.5cm (2-3in) of soil resembles coarse breadcrumbs.