I have been dabbling in vegetable and flower gardening throughout the years but have never been very successful with starting seeds. Years ago, I tried it a few times but couldn't keep the cats out of them, no matter what kind of barrier we put up. After a while, I just gave up. A few years ago, I tried some cold starts of cruciferous veggies outside in milk jugs. However, they never quite flourished in the garden.
One of my goals this year was to try my hand again at seed starting. One, because I like to watch the growing process, and two, I hope to save a little money on the plants we usually buy in the spring. I consider this a learning year and am not trying to do everything perfectly. However, I've read some and talked to Master Gardners from the extension service. I expect it to take a couple of years to figure out what works for me. Here is what I've done so far.
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| In February, I went to a seed exchange at the town hall. It was more like a seed giveaway than an exchange. I also got to talk with some master gardeners. I have way more seeds than I can use, including the seeds I've been saving over the years. I plan to share some of my bounty. |
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| I started a combination of flowers and vegetables outside, including some tomatoes. Although tomatoes are not recommended for a cold start, one person said she does it every year, so I'm giving them a try. |
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| Inside, I have started 14 different vegetables and flowers. Most of the seeds I used were old, so I sowed liberally, and we'll see what happens. I purchased two heating mats off eBay for a good price and bought two grow lights to aid the process. Ward made stands for the lights and cleverly made them so they will break down and be stored easily. I wasn't sure where to set things up, but I decided on the living room. Since it is easily accessible, I check on the trays and move things around several times a day. I do not have enough lights or heating pads to leave everything in one place. |
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| The basil was the first to sprout, but more are joining it every day. At least half of what I planted has sprouted. |
I know a lot has to happen between sowing a seed and getting a plant to grow outside, but I feel like I have a good start. My hope is that I will be successful and can share with others. And if not this year, maybe next. At the very least, this is a fun experiment.
Until next time...
