Start Seeding

Although The Warm Winter May Mean An Early Growth, No Need To Let That Time Go To Pot

By Master Gardener Dianne Peters-Nickerson // Sankofa Farm & Nursery

Ladies and gentlemen, start your gardening.

WRONG! Little Miss may have been given one chore too many in this photo. She is over-watering these plants and drowning them as you can see the soil cannot soak up the amount of water being delivered.

It's time to start seeds indoors or in cold frames.  Although, I must admit, I started December 27 with Sweet Basil. The seeds germinated December 30!  I was so excited that I started more seeds; Cilantro, Oregano, Dill and some annuals, Sweet Pea, Giant Zinnias and Borage.  I love fresh herbs and the scent of Sweet Pea flowers!  I admit, I was over zealous. It is early for herbs, so go with cool season crops such as lettuce, spinach, peas, beets, cabbage, broccoli and cauliflower. I started early because I now have wonderful South & West sun. However, supplemental lighting from florescent and plant bulbs is helpful for plant development of strong stems, especially on those series of cloudy days. Turn your germinated seedlings pots when they start leaning, so they can grow straight strong stems. Bottom watering makes less watering for you. The roots suck up and hold the water longer. If you're planting Common Milkweed, the seeds need a cold period to germinate, so plant them now about 3 inches deep. Many seeds take about 80-90 days, unless otherwise stated on package, for flower buds to develop and open. I have noticed that some packages state “flowers in 50-60 days” but we will see. Remember to check last frost date predictions for your area before you set plants outside unless they will be in a cold frame or other protected over-hang area.

As always, remember our feathered friends, feed and provide water, even shelter, for them as you update your garden.

Until next time...