Starting
From Seed
Feel like literally starting
from scratch? There are those gardeners who swear that starting
plants from seeds is the only true way to garden, and from a practical
side it does have its merits.
Seeds are generally cheap,
easy, and the selection is endless. You can also usually select
plants more carefully based on your size, color, and timing needs
by simply reading the packages.
Seeds can be started
in anything - styrofoam cups, trays, milk jugs - so long as they
are clean and have drainage holes.
Pack the containers with
a sterile, soilless mixture, leaving room at the top for watering.
Scatter small seeds on top of the mixture, pressing down slightly.
Larger seeds should be planted to a depth of 2 times their own width.
Water lightly, cover
with plastic, and store in a well-lit, warm (65-70 degrees) area.
The seeds will begin sprouting within 1-3 weeks, and should be fed
with a diluted fertilizer after the second set of leaves forms.
At this time, they may also have to be transplanted to a larger
container if they look like they're getting crowded.
You'll find a selection
of seed starting equipment on our seeds
page.
|
