Get a clean paper cup, fill it with dirt and pop in a seed. It is just that simple. Almost every kid has attempted this and successfully watched a bean seedling emerge from a seed. Unfortunately, serious seed starting is not quite so easy. Between the diseases many soils contain and the variety of seeds with varying needs, sometimes it seems more a scientific feat than a fun science experiment. Still, there is something empowering about harvesting the fruit of what once started out as a seed and grew from your efforts.

Timing

Because seeds are so readily available and there are so many gadgets to help us grow them out of season, many people do not realize that timing is critical for seed starting. Don’t get overzealous. Starting seedlings too early can result in spindly, weak plants. When ordering seeds, refer to the package instructions for timing details. If a packet of peppers recommends starting the seeds indoors four weeks prior to transplanting, count four weeks before the last frost date for your area, if this is when you are planning to plant. If you don’t plan on planting until two weeks after that date, then do not start the pepper seeds indoors until four weeks before you plan to plant.

Soil

• Previous Page
• 1
• 2
• 3
• 4
• Next Page