Seed starting mix is known as a soil-less mix , and unlike garden soil or potting soil, it is a sterile pathogen free growing mix. This is important because pathogens can kill seedlings while they are germinating, so growing seeds in a soil-less mixture increases their survival rate.  After your seeds have germinated and grown two true leaves, then they can be transplanted into containers filled with potting soil. 

DIY Seedling Mix recipe:

4 parts screened (mature) compost
1 part perlite
1 part vermiculite
2 parts coir (coconut fiber)

Use hands, or trowel to mix until ingredients are well combined.

Wet the seedling mix only until you can form a loose ball (water should not be dripping from the mixture)

Fill pots, or trays, with seedling mix

Plant seeds to the depth shown on the seed packet, cover seeds with seedling mix, then use a spray bottle to gently water the seeds.

Label your pots or trays with seed variety.

Article and photos by Carlotta Lucas, AGC Member