Winter Sowing has Begun!

Since I left my greenhouse on John Adams St, this year it is back to Winter Sowing for me and my flower seeds. It works well, but is a little messy in the beginning. Here's how I do it:

1. Throw away the lid, then about two thirds of the way down, cut a translucent gallon milk jug nearly all the way around , but leave a small one inch "hinge" below the handle.
2. Open the jug and poke holes in the lower section for drainage.
3. Fill the bottom of the jug with about 3 inches of seed starting medium.
4. Water the medium thoroughly, let drain, then plant the seeds.
5. Close the top and tape it shut at each of the three remaining "corners".
6. Label the container (unless you like mysteries)
7. Put it outside where it will receive natural light and rainfall.
8. The seeds will sprout when the time is right.

That's it! The containers act as mini-greenhouses. Since it is not totally sealed shut, there is air circulation and no damping-off problems. No need to water if there is adequate rainfall. I've done this many years and nearly everything germinates. Because the seeds sprout and grow "outside", the new plants harden off naturally.

I have only just started my planting for the year. There's more to come!