In recent years, there has been an increased interest in buying local and knowing where your food is coming from. Individuals are beginning to gain more interest in providing their families with sustainable food by growing their own fruits and vegetables. Through this effort, people are beginning their journey by starting seeds indoors prior to the growing season.
Starting seeds indoors takes a great deal of planning before they can be sown into the soil. Things to consider when planting seeds are the light requirements, the types of seeds to be planted, the soil, the temperature, the types of containers, and when and how to fertilize.
Different seeds have different light requirements. Seeds can be planted indoors near windows with light filtering through for germination to take place. However, because the natural light may not be as intense in late winter or early spring, the seedlings can be tall and spindly and reach towards the window seeking light. Artificial light creates a more intense light for home growers and can help facilitate stronger, healthier stems.
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Determining the types of seeds to plant can be fun but also a challenge. There are many different types of seeds to plant and within each type of plant there are many varieties. It is recommended to use fresh seeds when planting. However, properly stored seeds can be used.
To store seeds, place in a tightly sealed container and place it in a dark place, whether it be in a refrigerator or in a cupboard. Seeds that have been stored should be tested for germination. One way to test seeds for germination is to wet a paper towel, place 10 or more seeds on the paper towel, fold the paper towel and place the folded paper towel inside a plastic bag. Put the plastic bag in a warm area. Check the paper towel daily to be sure that the paper towel is still wet. If the paper towel is dry, spritz the paper towel with water and place back in the warm area. Through this simple method, the rate of germination can be determined by checking it regularly, removing and counting germinated seeds — seeds that sprout — until you conclude that all the viable seeds have germinated.
Self-pollinating seeds are generally better choices for seed-saving. Examples are tomatoes, peppers, beans and peas.
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Seedlings need good soil to grow. The optimal pH for seedlings to begin to grow is 5.7 to 6.2. Commercial mixes of soil are good choices, as they are already mixed to the correct proportions. They will give seeds the start they need. Sphagnum peat moss and vermiculite are commercial soil-less mixes. Commercial mixes are good choices because they are free of diseases, weed seeds and insects. However, garden soil and potting soil are not good choices for seed-starting media. Choose a soil that is specifically for starting seeds.
Another important factor to consider is the temperature. Seeds have different temperature requirements, but generally a temperature of 65-75 degrees is adequate for starting seeds. In addition, seed mats work well in aiding seedlings to germinate quicker. Warming mats keep the soil warm, so the seedlings can emerge. However, once the seedlings have emerged from the soil, remove the warming mats so the seedlings can grow into healthy, strong plants.
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When planting seeds, there are many different containers which can be used. Some growers use open seed flats, and some growers use single-cell (plug) trays. Other containers which can be used when starting seeds are egg cartons, salad containers, yogurt containers and other recycled containers. Be sure that containers are clean and that they have proper drainage. To clean containers and tools, disinfect by soaking in a solution of 10% bleach and 90% water. Therefore, one gallon of water would have 1.6 cups of bleach.
After all the factors have been considered to begin planting seeds, sow the seeds in a straight line, if possible. As the seedlings emerge, they can be thinned out easier. The strong seedlings will survive so they can grow into strong, healthy plants.
Observe the new plants for anything that does not look healthy, such as yellowing of the leaves or tall, spindly growth. The soil should be moist and damp while planting the seeds. As the seedlings begin to grow, a fine mist with a spray bottle should be sufficient to keep the seedlings moist. Check the seedlings daily and mist the seedlings if they need water.
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When to fertilize
As the seedlings begin to grow, they will need to be fertilized. Begin fertilizing when the first set of true leaves appears. For the first two weeks, water them once a week with a half-strength fertilizer. After the first two weeks, fertilize with a full-strength fertilizer. This should help the plants be healthy and ready to plant in the garden in late spring.
In addition to beginning the fertilizing regimen, seedlings can also be transplanted into larger containers after the first true leaves appear. Continue to water and fertilize the plants as they grow. Before planting the plants into the garden, the plants will need to be “hardened off” so that they can adjust to the outdoor temperatures. Place the plants outdoors in a shady spot for several hours a day and for seven to 14 days. The healthy plants will be ready to be planted into the garden in late spring after any chance of frost is gone.
Planting seeds gives a sense of pride, and knowing where food is coming from gives joy to gardeners.
Story by Kristen Bastow from the Master Gardeners program.