Planting a garden from seeds is a simple and cost-effective way to start gardening before the weather warms up. Not only is it budget-friendly, but it also allows for a sense of accomplishment and wonder as the seeds you plant grow into living plants. Here are some guidelines to follow from Savana Garden Beds to help you get started:
To begin, you can start your perennial seeds outdoors by using a plastic flat filled with small flowerpots (about 3-4 inches in diameter) filled with damp potting soil and planting the seeds at the same depth and width. It's best to use more small seeds per pot to reduce the use of large seeds.
If you prefer to start sowing indoors, you'll need a few basic elements: sterile seed starting soil, a seed starter tray or container with drain holes, artificial or natural light, and bottom heating. To set up, fill the container with soil, plant the seeds, water gently, and place it on a refrigerator for the heat to promote germination. As the plants grow, you can move them to a sunny window, making sure to rotate them daily to prevent them from stretching towards the light source.
To keep seeds healthy, it's important to use a sterile seedling mixture to prevent fungal diseases such as "moisture" and pests like fungi and black flies. Encourage air circulation by aiming a fan at the seedlings and changing its position frequently. When watering, use a very mild spray until the plants are strong enough to handle a stronger flow.
Remember that planting seeds can take some trial and error, so don't be discouraged if your first attempt doesn't go as planned. Keep practicing, and soon you'll be rewarded with healthy young plants ready to take their place in your garden.
