URBANA, Ill. – Tiny seeds provide challenges for gardeners trying to evenly space lettuce, onion, carrot, and herb seeds. Pelleted seeds are coated with a biodegradable material and easier to hold and plant.

The colorful coating also protects the seed, improving germination rates. Pre-treated seeds may be exposed to water, then dried before being coated which also aids in germination. Pelleted seeds are only viable for one year, says Mary Fisher, University of Illinois Extension horticulture educator.

Illinois Extension will help gardeners understand the benefit and cautions for using pelleted seeds in a free online webinar. The workshop begins at 1:30 p.m. March 29. Register online at go.illinois.edu/fourseasons.

To request a reasonable accommodation, contact Gemini Bhalsod at gbhalsod@illinois.edu. Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time to meet access needs.

The workshop is part of Extension’s Four Seasons Gardening workshop series.

ABOUT EXTENSION: Illinois Extension leads public outreach for University of Illinois by translating research into action plans that allow Illinois families, businesses, and community leaders to solve problems, make informed decisions, and adapt to changes and opportunities.

WRITER: Judy Mae Bingman, Illinois Extension Marketing and Communications Manager