I called Uncle Billy, my local resource for all gardening questions, and asked what seeds I should be starting now. He grows seedlings for his vegetable garden every year, so he knows when it's time to start what. As it turns out, the only thing he has growing under the lights right now is onions - not something we're going to grow since not everyone here likes them. However, he told me about a cold sowing method he was trying. Basically, you sow cold weather seeds into milk jugs which act like a mini greenhouses. The seeds sprout when they're ready and you don't have to do any hardening off. That sounded like something I could handle, so I'm trying it, too.
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First was a trip to Southern States for seeds and potting mix.
I was able to use a 10% off coupon and I have enough seeds left to share. |
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I cut the milk jugs about 4" up from the bottom near the base of the handle.
The handle acts as a hinge and remains intact. After that, Ward and I drilled holes into the bottom for drainage. I tried using a screw driver to make the holes, but the plastic was too thick.
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| The base of the jug was filled with soil and moisten before sowing the seeds. |
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| Before setting the "greenhouses" outside in a sunny spot, I sealed the cut middles with packing tape. Now I wait. |
That's an interesting method.
ReplyDeleteThat's what I thought.
DeleteI have to tell my husband about this. He made a cold frame last year but I think this method would allow him to start gardening even earlier.
ReplyDeleteI was thinking that this was like a cold frame. We'll see how it turns out. I think you husband might like to try this. You'll have to let me know how it works for him if he does.
DeleteThat sounds like a great way to start the seedlings! I hope it works out well for you!
ReplyDeleteA little different than the way you start seedlings in your warm climate. :)
DeleteThat's a really great idea. I also use those clamshells that bakery items come in as mini greenhouses. I use a plastic fork to prop them open during the day, then knock the fork down to close them at night.
ReplyDeleteGood luck with your seedlings!
I have saved several plastic containers with domed lids for the more traditional seed starting. However, I haven't started anything in them yet. It's a little soon for most things at this point, and I don't have many good places to do things indoors because of the cats. I was inspired to see that you've got your tomatoes going, though.
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