This is going to be a demonstration on How to WinterSow.We start wintersowing as early as the wintersolstice in December.Some seed need cold stratifying (meaning to go through cold-warm periods)to coax the seed to germinate,just as in mother nature when a plant reseed's itself. 1st the reason we wintersow in recyclable containers is to protect the seed a bit,If you direct sowed,meaning to plant the seed in the flower bed,It could very well get washed away from heavy rains, or seedling may come up in a less than desirable place,It could be eaten by a insect or bird or other.You might not be able to Identify it come spring and accidentally weed it out.You could grow the seed inside under lights.This is expensive and brings gnats into the home and seedlings would need to be hardened off(meaning to be acclimated to their surroundings)You would also lose seedlings to damping off(a fungal disease common to seedlings and seed grown inside)Also with wintersowing,you don't need to scarify or presoak a seed..Mother Nature takes care of that...
WinterSowing
It's an alternative way of germinating the seed as to emulate mother nature in a protective setting,No hardening off,No damping off,No expensive lighting.No scarifying,No presoaking seed.Here's how.Start by prepping a recycled plastic container.There are many different types,MilkJugs,Soda bottles,Juice containers,Take-out containers,just to name a few.
Start with container
Remove screw top and throw away!!
- Cut holes in the bottom of recycled container and one hole in the center for inserting scissors
Cut container in two pieces,If using a bottle or jug.
- Cut V's in side of bottle,this allows the top to fit back on and can be raised or lowered for ventilation.
- Have your seeds ready and you can label the top.I use a paint pen,it doesn't fade out in the elements.
Add soil, Rule of Thumb,at least a thumbs length,I'm using Miracle gro potting soil,any good quality potting soil will work
.Wet soil and let drain to the consistency of brownie mix and add seed's
Add the top and set it out and forget about it
Now here is what you get come Spring
Its That Simple and Addicting
That's it there are many different variations of wintersowing,this just gives you a general ideal
For more information Go to Wintersown.org
If you want a chance to win FREE seed's to wintersow,check this out GetBusyGardenings Free Seed Giveaway
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If your on Facebook and like to trade seed's Join us at SeedTraders
