Here is the 3rd posting for my winter gardening series, enjoy.
Starting your edibles and annuals from seed for spring planting is not as hard are you think; here is what I know works.
The reason gardeners start seeds are many; some of the reasons are, lengthening the growing season, more plant choices, saves money and will be fun.
Weather in the high desert is so unpredictable, making gardening interesting to say the least. Our growing season is only about 90 days, so getting large healthy seedlings in the ground long enough to produce food or blooms is difficult.
Weather in the high desert is so unpredictable, making gardening interesting to say the least. Our growing season is only about 90 days, so getting large healthy seedlings in the ground long enough to produce food or blooms is difficult.
Here's what has worked for me.
Seeds need air, water and light. It’s that simple. The
seed packets will supply you with essential information, seed depth, spacing
and germination timing. Here are a few more important items for healthy
seedlings.
* When using containers make sure they are clean
* Growing medium; I like the peat pellets for
easy use and are easily planted directly into the ground
* If you want to use soils, buy good seed staring soils, they are clean and developed for seeds to germinate
* If you want to use soils, buy good seed staring soils, they are clean and developed for seeds to germinate
* Using a seed starting tray is a great way to
keep the moisture level correct.
* Watering
(mist until the first sprout appears, then water gently)
nighttime
temperature, 60-65°. You may want to use a warming pad to get started
Planting your seedlings
* Before
planting you need to harden-off your plants – this is a gradual acclimatization
over a period of 7 to 10 days. Set plants out with indirect light during the day; bring them in at night
* Disturb the
roots as little as possible when planting
* Protect plants from wind and cold– stake, cover or
screen until they begin to put on size
Because we live in
what is known as a short growing season the only seeds that we can
directly plant in the ground are the cool season vegetables, such as carrots,
beets, lettuce and peas. Most of these
seeds can germinate when the soil is as cool as 40°; or 2 to 3 weeks before the
last frost. Check the package for the specific directions. Work organic matter
into the soil a week or so before you plant. This will allow the organic
material to start to break down enriching the soil for a healthy crop.
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