Have you tried starting your seeds outdoors by winter sowing? It will save you time, money, work, and space and give you a head start to the season. For the last decade, I’ve noticed that plants are hardier and more resilient when exposed to adverse conditions outdoors in the early stages. We start from anywhere from December to early March in zone 8. Cooler climates can start between February and April. Seeds can be planted directly under cloches or into plastic containers in winter through early spring. You can start with cold-hardy crops like kale, collards, other brassicas, chard, spinach, and alliums like onions, chives, scallions, leeks, lettuce, and claytonia. You may also sow self-seeding plants or varieties that require moist and cold conditions to germinate, known as cold stratification. Most cold-hardy annuals, native and perennial plants are also great candidates for winter sowing. I usually wait to sow warm crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil closer to springtime. ✅Cut the container in half, leaving the back side intact. Drill or cut out holes in the bottom for drainage. Fill the container with 4” of pre-moistened potting soil. Containers must be transparent enough to allow sunlight penetration. ✅The tops of containers are left off to allow venting and water to enter from precipitation. Any condensation inside the container will provide water. ✳️If you live in a dry climate, you may have to give supplemental watering. The seeds naturally germinate when conditions are favorable. ✅Place containers in a sunny location. These miniature greenhouses should be vented on warm days (50+ F) to prevent overheating and should be closed in the evening. ✅No need to harden off or acclimate your seedlings! Just sow them in place or transplant them in their homes! Will you be winter sowing this season? Let me know in the comments! Happy winter sowing! 🌱💚
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