Winter is the time to begin planting your garden--from seed, that is. Gardening catalogs offer the promise of things to come and give relief to winter-weary gardeners. But seed catalogs aren't the only source of seed. When you travel or visit gardens, keep your eyes open for seeds. Tuck a fallen seed pod or dried flower head into your pocket, and give the seeds a try. Here's how to start your own seeds: - Fill a 6" plastic container with a sterile soilless mix made of peat moss, perlite and vermiculite. Using sterile potting mix minimizes the chance that your seedlings will succumb to fungal diseases.
- Don't fill the pot to the brim with soil--leave room for water.
- Tap the seeds out of the packet and into your hand.
- Place the seeds on the surface of the soil one by one.
- Leave room between the seeds so they have room to grow. Crowded plants are more susceptible to funguses.
- Cover the seed with milled sphagnum moss to help prevent fungal diseases such as "damping off."
- Water after planting to settle the seeds into the soil.
- Label the container with the variety name and the date planted.
- Place the prepared container inside a plastic bag, which helps slow the rate of moisture loss and provide high humidity to aid germination.
- Place the pot in a warm, sunny spot, and the seeds will sprout quickly.
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