There is nothing more exciting for this gardener than seeing the first bits of green as shoots force their way up through the soil. As gardeners in the northern climates know, ya gotta start early. While February is still bringing us an occasional ice storm, this Michigan gardener is planting seeds.There
Caring for the seedlings is very simple, I cover the sprouting plants with clear plastic to keep the moisture in. Once they are an inch high the plastic is removed and I have a small oscillating fan or two blowing for a few hours each day. This circulates the air preventing mold, and the intermittent breeze strengthens the stems of the plants. Now that the seedlings are uncovered they will require more frequent watering. Misting is helpful for the tender young plants.
Some of the plants will require transplanting into larger pots. I usually hang on to a few 2 quart ice cream boxes. Plastic milk jugs are good too and you can use them as mini green houses when you are putting smaller seedlings into the ground. Just flip them upside down and plop a rock on top to keep the wind from blowing them off.
When it is time to harden off the young plants I have found
- Set out under a cold frame on a wet, overcast day - no high temperatures in the afternoon and low chance of hard frost at night.
- Limit direct sunlight at first. As you harden them place them where there is afternoon shade.
- Once in the ground keep an eye on the weather in case there is a late frost.
- Keep extra seedlings available in case you need to replace failed plants.
© Can Stock Photo Inc. / Griffin024
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