[mylow54]

I have just moved home and have just prepared a vegetable plot. i have just started planting, and where i have watered the plants and seeds in, it has become hard and crusty on top, I think the soil is very fertile as the previous owner was a very keen gardener but growing flowers and not veg. I would normaly think i could hoe the surface to break up the crust but because i have just planted seeds i am unable to do this. Will the seeds be able to break through the crust?

[viettaclark]

Yup!

[Salmo]

It all depends on what you have planted. Small seedlings like carrots, beetroot or lettuce can get trapped underneath a crust and die. Best to give a gentle watering each evening after the sun has gone down until they come through.

[Kristen]

I would try not to water a seed row after sowing - to prevent the crust forming.

Draw a V-shaped groove / "drill" 1/2" deep (or whatever needs for the seeds).  Use a watering can to water along the drill, sow the seeds, cover over (with the drier soil from the sides), and then there should be enough water under the seeds until they germinate.

[Stevens706]

Or do what Kirsten said but cover drill with multipurpose compost