Growin’ Things

by Susie Rollheiser

Spring gardening is closer than you think. By now your mailbox has been flooded with those beautiful seed catalogues. And if you’re like me you’ve turned down many a page corner tying to reduce the size of your order to the size of your budget. While I would love to try all the new varieties I control myself and only try a few new ones each year.

This is when the buddy system comes into play. Find a friend or neighbor who enjoys gardening and see if you can’t share seeds. And wouldn’t it be nice to have someone to discuss the outcome of your nurturing techniques? Good and bad?

So, your seeds have arrived and it’s time to start that indoor planting. There are three basics to remember when starting seeds inside: soil, light and water. Because you are providing an artificial environment, you must be very attentive to all three conditions. In each case there are very special considerations.

Soil: It’s important that the soil you use is sterile. Garden soil contains spores (always present) which create a condition known as damping-off disease. Indoor conditions seem to bring out the worst in this fungus. It can wipe out days of hard work in just a few hours and once started, impossible to stop.

To avoid this fungus you can sterilize your own soil or better yet purchase sterile medium. there are several great brands on the market and for the money, quite economical time savers. But be sure it states on the package that it is “sterilized.”

If you use your own soil, you will need to sift out the large clumps and then sterilize it in the oven. Spread soil not more than four inches deep in a non-plastic container. Cover it with aluminum foil. Insert a meat thermometer through the foil into the center of the soil.

Set the over between 180 and 200 degrees. Heat the soil to at least 180 degrees F; keep at this temperature for 30 minutes. Do not allow the temperature to go above 200 degrees F. High temperatures may produce plant toxins. After heating, cool, remove containers from the oven and leave aluminum foil in place until ready to use. The soil will give off an odor.

Light: Seedlings need lots of light. Insufficient light will make your plants leggy. Even if your seedlings are sitting in a window that receives full sun you may need to supplement it with artificial light. Use bulbs that are specifically made for growing plants and place them just a foot or so above your seedlings. The light will need to be on at least 14 hours a day. Fluorescent lights are ideal because they won’t produce much heat, which can quickly dry out your seedlings.

Water: It’s the one that needs the most attention. Too much, too little or just right? You want the medium (soil) kept moist but not wet or soggy. If possible watering from the bottom and letting the medium soak up the water like a sponge is best.

To promote germination, cover with plastic wrap, helping to keep in the heat and moisture. This keeps them warm and moist, but remember to remove as soon as the plants sprout or you’ll risk suffocating the seedlings.

You’ll have to keep watch that the seedlings don’t dry out. To help, create extra moisture by setting the plants on a tray with a layer of rocks. Put a small amount of water in the tray but don’t completely cover the rocks, then set your plants on the gravel.

Timing is the key. Don’t’ start those seedlings too early or you’ll be transplanting into larger pots and probably running out of those prime sunny spots. Usually you can count on four to six weeks after sowing. When they’re ready and the soil temperature is just right, usually between 50-60 degrees, it’s time to head outdoors.

And speaking of the great outdoors, it’s time to learn more about the adventures that surround us. Take an opportunity to add to your experiences, both yours and others. Whether it’s through plants, wildlife or outdoor sports, join the Women in the Outdoors Event, April 6, at the Miracle Hills Ranch, 35556 W. 200th Ave., Bethany. For details, contact Becky McMahon at 425-7655. I’ll see you there and until then keep thinking spring and green!

Editor’s note: You can email Susie Rollheiser at [email protected].