🌱 How Many Seeds Should I Plant?
- by Holly Ciancioso
- November 14, 2025
- True Garden Blog
A Guide for Vertical and Plug-Based Growers
When it comes to planting in a Tower Garden or any plug-based system, knowing how many seeds to use per plug can make all the difference. Overcrowding can stunt growth, while under-planting can limit your harvest. Here’s a quick guide to help you get it just right—crop by crop.
🥬 Lettuce
Head Lettuce
(Bibb, Iceberg, Salanova, etc.)
👉 1 seed per coco coir plug
A single seed will grow into a full, beautiful head. Planting more than one seed causes overcrowding and limits growth.
Leaf Lettuce
(Romaine, Green & Red Oak Leaf, Endive)
👉 1 seed in cool months, 2–3 seeds in summer
During warmer months, planting extra seeds improves your chances before the summer heat causes bolting.
Try Summer Crisp varieties like Cherokee, Magenta, and Muir when temperatures rise.
Spring Mix / Elegance Mix
👉 6–8 seeds per plug
Microgreens
👉 Up to 12 seeds per plug
Harvest young and often for tender, flavorful greens.
🍅 Fruiting Vegetables
Beans, Peas, Cucumbers, Melons
👉 1–2 seeds per plug
These plants don’t take up much space. Two seeds can boost your yield—just trim gently when thinning or pruning.
Squash, Tomatoes, Peppers, Eggplant, Okra
👉 1 seed per plug
These larger plants need room to breathe. Planting more than one seed can lead to crowding, poor airflow, and an increased risk of disease.
🌿 Herbs
Chives
👉 20+ seeds per plug
The more seeds you plant, the fuller the bunch!
All Other Herbs
(Basil, Cilantro, Parsley, Dill, etc.)
👉 6–8 seeds per plug
🌱 Leafy Greens
Kale, Swiss Chard, Collards, Beet Greens, Dandelion, Mustard, Braising Mix
👉 1 seed per plug
These plants grow large—especially Swiss Chard. If left too long, chard can even crack your Tower Garden’s shower cap!
Spinach
👉 5–6 seeds per plug
Spinach can be tricky to germinate, so planting a few extras gives better odds.
Arugula
👉 6–8 seeds per plug
Spicy, quick-growing, and perfect for dense planting.
🌼 Final Tip:
A healthy garden starts with smart seeding. Use this guide as a reference as you prep your plugs, and always consider your local climate, seasonal temperatures, and crop type. Need help with seed selections or supplies? We’ve got you covered here at True Garden!
