The sowing of seeds is such a ritual that most people sow far more than they could ever need, and much too thickly. It would be better to take your time sowing thinly and singly. Even so, thinning will be required once the seeds have germinated and got going. Work carefully backwards along a row, patiently removing excess seedlings until those remaining are a couple of inches apart, then repeat the exercise a week or two later to leave the plants at their final spacings. Your reward will become apparent in time, and the thinnings, when from edible species, may form a delicate garnish.

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