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Why can’t I plant those seeds right in the garden, instead of starting them indoors? Many favorite garden crops, such as tomatoes, originated in tropical environments and require a long, frost-free growing season. In most regions of the U.S., if you plant tomatoes from seed after the last spring frost, you’ll be lucky to get a tomato or two before the first fall frost. That's why long-season, heat-loving plants like tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants are set in the garden as transplants (plants that have been started indoors or in a greenhouse). Cool season crops like broccoli and cauliflower also do better when set in the garden as transplants. Crops like these suffer in the heat of summer, so setting transplants out early -- a few weeks before the last spring frost -- gives them time to mature before hot weather arrives.
Practicality aside, many gardeners start their own seeds simply because it's fun! It's a great way to gear up for the gardening season -- even while there's still snow on the ground. Not to mention the wonder of watching the transformation from hard, seemingly lifeless seed to vital, growing plant. Let's get down to business, and talk about how to start your own seeds!
Class 3, Page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Copyright 2002,
National Gardening Association. All Rights Reserved.
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