Seeds and Seed Saving

Happy New Year! 

Our last harvest was in October and we've had many good freezes and snow on the ground since then.  It's been in the 20's this week but we're told it should get up to 40 today. They are forecasting changes in the weather pattern that will bring much colder air soon and that may be here for the next few months. 

January is typically the time of year we take what we learned from the garden last year and make plans for this year's plantings. We think about what we loved, what needs to be changed and adding some new things. 

If you recall, last year we had a path through the garden back to our raised beds. The path was pretty much filled in by vining plants that sprawled out as is shown here. 

 

We haven't decided how to tackle this but there has been talking about expanding the garden further so I've been leafing through some seed catalogs we've recently received while listening to some videos on gardening.

I pretty much follow these guidelines for dealing with seeds.

Seed Packets
Most seed packets list the specifics on planting instructions. I tend to collect seeds from my plants but I also purchase from catalogs. And many times the seeds from my garden are often not identical to their parent plant because of random open pollination. 


Saving Seed
When saving seeds, clean and dry them and place them in a container that will keep them dry. Store seeds in a cool location. 

Germination mix
 It is recommended to use a germination mix that is a combination of one-third sterilized sand, one-third vermiculite, and one-third peat moss and while I typically plant in a mixture similar to this I've had success using a cheap organic potting soil.

Accelerate Seed Starts
To accelerate the starting process, I occasionally wet a paper towel and stick my seeds on one half and then fold it over so the seeds are encased. Then place the folded paper towel in a plastic bag and check-in 2-5 days and you may see they've sprouted. I often try this route to see if my older seeds will germinate.

Containers and Modules
There are a variety of options including flats or trays with dividers, or you can use small individual pots or clay containers. It's possible to use recycled items, like milk cartons, toilet or paper towel rolls, yogurt, and cottage cheese containers to name a few.


Light Source
Seedlings usually need a bright light source to develop into healthy plants. 

Heat Source
Most seeds have an optimal temperature at which they germinate. You can look at the seed packets for recommended germination temperatures and remember temperature is important in having a decent success rate.  When seeds have sprouted, they generally do best in slightly cooler temperatures.

Water
A continuous supply of water is needed to ensure successful germination as seeds absorb water. Once the germination begins,  avoid dry conditions or overwatering. As I start my plants in modules, I fill a container with water. I use a bottle that once stored honey as it has a top on it that allows me to gently drop water where I want it. I always water the soil and try to avoid watering leaves.