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| Seed Starting |
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Many of us enjoy the satisfaction of planting seeds we’ve started ourselves. Yet, some of us have problems getting beyond the seedling stage. Here are some questions we often here and some tips we’ve found useful that might help you. When
should you start seeds?
Do seeds need sun to germinate? In a word, no. They have no leaves yet so sun is not necessary. They do need soil, moisture and warmth. Putting them on a heat vent to germinate works just fine. Once the seedlings begin to appear above the soil, move them to an east window ledge. This will acclimate them to direct light. Cool drafts from the window will impede bolting of the little sprouts. If they get too tall too fast they will fall over. If they lean toward the sun, turn them around. You can even put them outside if the temperature is 60 degrees or higher, but don’t leave them overnight outside. Water seedlings when they need it, not when you feel the need to water. Too much water can weaken the seedling and cool conditions will minimize water uptake. When should you transplant seedlings? Transplant each seedling into small pots after the second set of true leaves develops. Too much soil in a large pot can hold too much water. You can transplant up to a larger pot when the plant gets bigger. If you’re not sure about the seeds you are working with, feel free to bring the seed packet in and one of our Phelan staff members will be happy to help you figure it out! For any questions you have on this article, or any topic of concern, email us—or better yet, come by and talk to one of our professional staff members. Remember, Phelan Gardens is open year-round! For additional information, check the following links: |
Read the seed packet for number of days to
germination and add that number onto the amount of time you can afford to have
them inside. Keep in mind that some plants grow quicker than others. If the
plants are cool hardy, like broccoli and peas, they can be hardened off starting
off in April. If they are heat loving, like tomatoes, peppers and squash, they
should not go outside until around May 15th—the approximate date of
our last frost along the front range of Colorado.