How to Start Your Spring Garden Now
Can you believe that another year has already passed? It is hard to watch the days go by so quickly. Many of us have a long list of goals or different things we want to accomplish this year, but you begin to wonder how you will ever get it done.
I am here to tell you, that you do not have to get everything done. In the world of homesteading, there are always projects to do, seeds to plant, and food to can (among everything else you have to do). However, it’s the priority of the item on the list that makes it come first. Wintertime is a much-needed break for those of us who know what comes monthly on the homestead. It is a time of reflection to see what can be changed for next year. Sourdough and bread creep their way to the top of the to-do list, especially if you haven’t mastered the skill.
“To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven.” Ecclesiasties 3:1
As we look ahead to springtime, we know that garden season is quickly approaching. No matter where you are, you can grow food for your family. Are you a first-time gardener? Do you have some experience in gardening? Do you want to expand your knowledge of ways to be self-sufficient? If you answered yes to any of these questions, this post is for you!
It may be January, and you’re probably thinking, “how can I start a spring garden now?” Well, with some items, it is absolutely necessary, but some can be planted just to give a longer growing season to allow even more fresh produce to feed your family. In this post, we are going to talk about the seeds that need to be planted because it is their time to get in the soil!
Let’s begin with seed starting and what it means.
When you seed start something, you are planting that seed in a small container that will eventually be transplanted to a bigger pot, raised bed, or in the ground. (More on that later!) Some plants do much better being planted in a small container to help their roots establish and form strong stems, while others will die if the roots are messed with by transplanting.
Seed starting is simple, using very few items, but it must be taken care of to survive and grow. To begin with seed starting, you need these 5 things:
Seeds
Containers
Potting Soil
Water
Heat/Light
The first thing to do is determine what you are going to plant. Only plant what your family is going to eat. If you are a newbie, do not overwhelm yourself with a huge garden. Start with three to five vegetables that you know your family eats the most and grow from there. When you have decided what you want to plant, it’s time to shop!
SeedsNow is one of my favorite places to order seeds! You will find a photo below that includes a discount code! Simply click on the photo to shop at no extra cost to you!
Once you have decided what you want to plant, it’s time to get some containers. These could be something as simple as a fruit container, egg carton with added holes for drainage, or purchasing small pots/seed cells. I tend to find that the smaller the container, the harder it is to keep the plant watered. That is why I purchase these small pots and reuse them each year. They come in a pack of 110 with the option of planting several seeds in each pot.
When seed starting, you want to make sure you have a good potting soil that is going to get those plants the nutrients they need to begin growing. I, typically, purchase a bag from our local Lowes and it does the trick!
Once you have your seeds, containers, and soil, you are ready to get those seeds started! Seed planting depth is very important. Some seeds are sown by just placing on top of the soil, while others are planted an inch deep. Your seed packets are your friend when it comes to depth, so make sure you follow those instructions.
Many people believe that a seed does not start without light, but the truth is that it will not start without heat. Heat, along with water, is what helps that seed to germinate and break through the soil. Once you have a sprout, it is time for light! Our dining room is always crowded during this time of year because I have an extra table by the window just for my seed starts. Putting my planted containers near a window helps them get that heat for germination, then light for continued growth.
Once you have your seeds planted, you want to make sure that you keep them watered.
That is it, friends! Seed starting doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive.
Here are a few tips:
Soil should not be packed but added loosely in trays/containers.
To avoid drowning your seed, wet the soil first.
If you notice your plant leaning to one side, rotate daily to ensure all sides are receiving adequate sunlight.
Forget easily? Set a timer or alarm on your phone for daily watering. You do not want your plants to dry out.
Google your last frost date to see when seed starting and planting is best for your area.
Are you ready to take the gardening dive? I have created an eight-page Seed Starting Planter for you to be completely organized! It includes what and when to start, a calendar, a wish list, and more! This printable pack is sure to get you off on the right start and set up for garden success!
I am rooting for you, friend! Let’s grow together and feed our families whole, nutrient-dense food!
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