Starting from Seed

Sowing seeds in the ground is a simple way to get flowers and vegetables growing in the spring. To get a jump on the season, start your seeds indoors. You’ll be able to enjoy early blooms and fabulous, fresh vegetables as a result. Those who live in Central or Eastern Oregon (where the growing season is shorter) will be able to enjoy the full fruits of their labors by starting seeds indoors early on. Either way you choose, starting plants from seeds is fun and easy. Following are some helpful tips on starting seeds.

 

 

Here is what you need to get started:

 

1.) Something to plant in ~ peat pots or planting trays work best, but cups, egg cartons, and yogurt containers will also work fine. Just make sure the container drains well and is large enough that it won’t dry out between waterings.

 

2.) Seedling Potting Mix ~ A seed starting potting mix is best, but regular potting soil will work as well. Just make sure to never use regular garden soil for any type of seed starting. You won’t be happy with the results!

 

3.) Seeds ~ There are so many to choose from. For most plant varieties, plan on growing them 6-8 weeks indoors, but check packet directions for accurate growing times. Also check the packet to see if pre-soaking is recommended. Some seeds are recommended to be sown directly in the ground, so make sure to read the directions.

 

4.) A place to grow ~ Seeds need a warm place in order to germinate. One method is to put the containers on top of a refrigerator. After they sprout, sufficient light is critical. A sunny windowsill works fine, as long as it isn’t too hot.

 

 

Now you are ready to plant your seeds. Follow these easy steps for success!

 

1.)  Fill your planting tray with potting soil. Pre-moisten the mix or peat pellets as directed by the instructions on the package.

 

2.)  Place your seeds in the soil. Larger seeds can be planted individually into the tray or peat pot. Smaller seeds can be very difficult to see. Sprinkle 3-4 seeds over the soil in each pot. Press in or lightly cover the seeds with potting mix. Do not cover them too deeply with soil.

 

3.)  Cover the tray with plastic wrap. Place the tray in a warm spot out of direct sunlight. Make sure that your soil always remains warm and moist.

 

4.)  When the seeds begin to sprout, remove the plastic wrap.

 

5.)  Place the seeds in a warm spot to grow. Turn the tray every two days to keep the plants growing straight ~ plants will always grow towards the sunlight.

 

6.)  Thin or transplant the seedlings when they get 2”-3” tall and have developed true leaves. This should happen after about 2-3 weeks. Thinning is done by gently pulling up the young plant or pinching off the stem. Transplant them to slightly larger containers to allow root growth. Lift seedlings carefully by digging them out of the tray with a fork or spoon, taking care not to disturb the tender roots. Keep transplants out of direct sun for a couple of days to prevent wilting.

 

 

7.)  Feed with a liquid soluble plant food diluted to half strength and remember to keep your soil moist, but not soggy.

 

When the danger of frost has passed, transplant your seedlings into the garden, but they must first be “hardened off”. Set the tray outdoors in shade for 2-3 hours a day. The following week, set the plants out a little longer each day, slowly exposing them to full sunlight. After the week is over, transplant the seedlings into the garden. Enjoy your wonderful, lush plants!

 

Follow these quick and easy steps for successful seed planting outdoors! Remember to wait until the danger of frost is over before planting seeds directly into the ground!

 

 

1.)    Choose a spot that gets plenty of sunlight and where the soil drains well.

 

2.)    Prepare the soil by raking the area clear of leaves and other debris. Dig the garden to loosen the soil down to about 12”. Add a transplant fertilizer at this time!

 

3.)    Make planting rows with a garden trowel. If you are planting flower seeds in groups rather than rows, use a pointed object (like a pencil) to make indentations in the soil.

 

4.)    Plant the seeds according to the spacing directions on the back of the seed packet. Large seeds can be planted individually. Some seeds are quite small. These can be mixed with a bit of sand and sprinkled over the area. Do not cover then too deeply with soil.

 

5.)    Attach the empty packet to a stick at the end of the row if you wish to identify what is planted there.

 

6.)   Water the area with a gentle flow from a watering can or hose. Keep the garden moist (not wet), until the plants are up and growing. Supplement natural rainfall by providing water if needed.