Well, it seems that spring has arrived at last in the suburbs of Chicago this last weekend. AAAHHHH, it feels so good to have the temperature in the 60’s! Of course, I think there is snow predicted for the end of the week. ‘Tis the nature of spring in our area. It’s time to start your seeds!
We are a couple of weeks late, as usual, starting our tomato seeds, but we got it done, and I find that they still do fine even if started a bit late. Whether you are new to gardening, or an experienced gardener who has never started your own seeds, you will be amazed at how simple a project this is. Starting my own seeds is important to me because I can ensure that my plants are grown in organic soil, that they come from organic seeds (which are really not that much more expensive to buy, and even, better, you can save some from last year’s produce), that they have never been sprayed with anything and that my seedlings are strong and healthy. By the way, this is a great project to involve your kiddos in. As you can see by the pictures 3 of my 4 were enjoying getting their hands dirty.
Here is how you do it:
1st gather your supplies…. you will need containers, soil, seeds and water. There is quite a variety of containers out there, or you can make your own with almost anything you can think of from plastic cups to recycled toilet paper rolls (which can be planted directly into the ground). I like to use something a bit bigger, so the plants can have plenty of root room. I bought mine this year. They are made from recycled cardboard and are designed to be planted directly into the soil, which is a little easier on the plants when being transplanted.
Next, fill your containers about 2/3 of the way full of soil. The soil you use can be taken from your own garden or bought. I bought mine this year – I always look for organic composition. The soil I bought this year was a bit on the chunky side, but it still will work just fine.
3rd, plant per instructions on seed package. Usually this involves sprinkling a few seeds in your little pots and covering very lightly with more soil. Lastly, find a sunny window and water gently. As your seeds germinate, you need to keep them moist.
Now you get to watch and wait for the first signs of your seeds coming to life! I will keep you posted as ours grow!
