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The most economical way to start bedding plants is from seed, especially annual flowers and vegetables. As the saying goes about perennials, "The first year they sleep, the second year they creep and the third year they leap."

Start annuals from seed about six weeks before the last frost. Starting them too early and you'll end up with weak, leggy plants that take a long time to 'catch up' once they're in the garden.

I use the little peat pots. I put them in a clean plastic (usually a recycled container from the deli). Soak them overnight, pour off the excess water and insert the seeds as per the directions on the packet. If I want four plants, I start eight seeds as I'm not great at growing plants from seed and many bite the dust. You may be more successful, but I have friends who also plant more than they need. You can always find another spot for an extra tomato plant or marigold, or give them away.

I place mine on a table in front of a sunny window. Check them every couple of days to make sure they are moist but not wet. When the time comes to plant them outside, simply plant the whole thing. This makes for less trauma (the plant's) and root damage than taking them out of a container to plant them.

You can also amend your seedlings by purchasing the same little started plants at your nursery - this is a hedge against unexpected things like slow starters or cutworms. At the end of the growing season, let some of the flowers (like zinnias, marigolds, nasturtium, sunflowers, etc. go to seed. Collect the seeds, let them dry on a paper towel, then store them in an airtight container (make sure they are completely dry!). Next year you'll have your own seeds to start!

Make a simple plan on paper for your plants. I use colored markers to give me an idea about what the colors will look like together. Place the tallest in the back if there is a wall behind your flower bed, or in the middle if it's an oval or round shape. Also, consider the bloom times and try to have a variety of spring, early-summer, late-summer and autumn bloomers.

Learn more about this author, Pat Merewether.
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