How to Start Seedlings For Your Garden

Now is the time to get those plants started for your garden.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Seeds
• Pots
• Soil

1. Light: Get a jump on panting your garden by starting your seedlings inside. You will need a southern exposure. A windowsill or table in front of a window will work. No southern exposure, then grow lights will be needed. You can find these in you local gardening store.

2. Seeds: Picking your seeds makes for a great family event. Have each family member choose their favorite seed. Try to get seeds that have just arrived in your store, older seeds may not germinate. When picking out your seeds, consider how much space this plant will take up in your garden.

3. 

   Containers: Any container will work. Make sure it has good drainage. If buying containers look for a hole in the bottom. If you are using your own pots make sure they are clean. Peat or fiber containers will need to be placed on a tray and soaked before using. Since they are porous, they have great drainage and then can be planted right into the ground.

4. 

   Soil: Pick a good package soil. Organic soils are sterile and free of unwanted seeds. Vermiculite is an excellent choice also, its light and can be used alone or on top of your soil.

5. 

   Care: Fill your container three quarters full, water the soil, and allow to drain. Make a hole with your finger and plant the seed the depth it says on your package. Cover with a fine layer of soil or vermiculite. Cover with a plastic bag as this will help keep the moisture in. Water with a fine mist sprayer. Keep soil moist but not soaking wet.

6. Fertilizer: When you see the first two leaves appear this is when you want to start fertilizing. Choose a good liquid fertilizer and use a weak solution once a week. After plants have developed, place outside one week before you plant in the ground so they can adjust to the outside temperatures.

7. 

   Planting: After plants have developed, place outside one week before you plant in the ground so they can adjust to the outside temperatures.

[naturalpath]

on 4/11/2009 I am trying to do this right now but my little starts are spindly. Maybe I need to fertilize. Thanks.