Question: Should I put some kind of fertilizer alongside my seeds when I plant them?

Answer: Probably not. All plant foods, whether they’re organic or inorganic, contain mineral salts. Those salts can be concentrated enough to cause root damage to tender new plants. Wait until the seedlings have been up and growing for two weeks, then apply a diluted solution of a water-soluble plant food. If you’re trying to do things totally organically, you may be able simply to mix generous amounts of well-composted manures into your garden soil as you prepare for planting. Over a period of several growing seasons, the manures may add sufficient nutrients. In the meantime, you may need to add a little of the water-soluble inorganic material.