by M Tyler

Created on: December 31, 2008

English garden, cottage garden, potager garden. Organic gardening, hydroponic gardening, chemical dependent gardening.
There are as many types of gardens as there are yards to grow them in. As many methods of gardening as there are people who garden. So, too, with starting seeds. There are MANY methods of growing plant from seed - each appeals to a different type of gardener.

If you garden like I do - digging in the dirt sometimes knowing what you're doing, other times just winging it - I've got just the method for you: WINTER SOWING. It's easy, very inexpensive and nearly fail safe. Sure, there are "mistakes" you can make and lose some germination but since you garden by the seat of your pants anyway, does it matter that not every single seed germinated? Probably not.

Reader beware though: the explanation of winter sowing that follows is my "lazy dirt diva" method not one from "a gardener". If you are an exact measuring, follow the rules, space everything perfectly gardener, this may not be up your alley. There are no rules, a few guidelines, some suggestions and places to find more information. If you're ready to dig in (pun intended), read on!

Let's start with an official definition so that you don't think this is made-up hocus-pocus tom-foolery. The following definition of WINTER SOWING comes from the USDA National Agricultural Library (http://agclass.nal.usda.gov/mtwdk.exe?k=default&l=60&w=97326&n=1&s=5&t=2

WINTER SOWING - A propagation method used throughout the winter where temperate climate seeds are sown into protective vented containers and placed outdoors to foster a naturally timed, high percentage germination of climate tolerant seedlings.

And now for the explanation for we "regular" dirt digging folks:

Winter sowing is the process of planting seeds in containers and placing OUTDOORS during the winter months. This is NOT starting seeds indoors under lights or in windows.

Many seeds need cold/warm cycles to germinate. When seeds are direct sown (into the ground) in the summer/fall, they get those cycles naturally.

Why winter sow? You get a jump start on spring planting, the cost is minimal, you get hardy plants (hey, they've lived outside all winter), you don't have to own a greenhouse and you don't have to find space inside your home for lots of little pots.

MATERIALS NEEDED
-good potting soil. No cheap stuff. If it feels like a brick when you go to buy it, pass it by for something better.

-containers...here's where it gets fun. You'll

• 1
• 2
• 3
• Next Page >>