How To Grow From Seeds
Posted by Bret Knight on April 12, 2011
Using saved seeds from previous crops is often a great method to be self sufficient. This is a wonderful goal. Extra skills are needed to grow from seeds. Seed size gives you an indication of how hearty those seedlings will be. If the seed is small, you will find seedlings to take some extra time to really take off. Large seeds give stronger seedlings. In this article, I will give you a quick introduction to raising from seeds.
Depending on where you are, you will find you will need to start warm season small seed crops indoors so they will have time to produce during the season. The temperature of the soil needs to be higher for warm season seeds to germinate. Plant large seeds in late spring because they do not need as much help. Remember, seed germination and temperature of the soil are closely related.
You can start small seeds closer together. If you do plant them close, you will have to take some time to thin them out. Your new young plants are competing for resources and you do not want to have any crowding issues. Many people sow them close together and thin them early in order to maximize the space and be able to absorb the pain of some seeds not germinating.
Please be aware of the vulnerabilities of seedlings. Some diseases, like fungal issues, can kill your plant. The best way to reduce the risk is to plant them when the soil is warm, but not wet. Super clean containers can be an great option to reduce disease risk. Make sure your seedlings start out in an area with good circulation. To ensure cleanliness, use bleach on all equipment and utensils. Lastly, you should make every effort to ensure you use sterile soil and clean water.
You do not have to start everything in the greenhouse. The age old way of growing outside is fine. After all, this is the way nature intended. If you plan, you will find your plants are drought and disease resistant. Just be mindful of new pests and watch for disease.
You do not have to have a greenhouse to start seedlings. Many people have a shelf in their house or garage with fluorescent lights. There is nothing wrong with starting your seeds here. You can regulate the temperature and put the lighting on a timer. Some have even integrated self-watering systems to make starting seeds simple and efficient. Just be careful any time you use electricity and water together. They do not play well. Be cautious.
This particular report happens to be the primer upon the best way to be effective with seed products as well as seedlings. Remember, small seeds need more time to take off while large seeds seem to grow much quicker. Take some time to remember seedling vulnerabilities and make an environment for them to flourish. Growing from seed is a great way to be self sufficient.
If you’re interested in learning more about the vegetables or how to grow them, read another article, where I share more information on how to be self sufficient. Be Self Sufficient today!
