Spring is a time for new beginnings and new growth. The weather is warming up again and it’s a lovely sight to see the flowers and leaves regrow on the trees. This is also the time to start seeds in preparation for the garden.
Starting plants from seeds is a great way to try out rare and different varieties of vegetables, flowers, and herbs that you won’t be able to get from the local nursery. For the first few years, I would organize my seeds according to the season and follow the sowing instructions on the seed packets.
There are many different methods for starting seedlings, by using a seed starting mix from the store, mixing your own, or using any medium you have on hand.
A seed starting mix is used to maximize the seed germination rate and to encourage root growth.
Coconut coir, a byproduct of coconut processing, is a fine, fluffy, and airy medium. It allows seeds to easily germinate and develop new roots. I add vermiculite and earthworm castings to create a mixture that will retain moisture and provide nutrients to the plants. You can also use perlite or a compost mixture in addition or as an alternative for the mix.
I have seen many recipe variations for seed starting mix. This is my first time creating and trying my own mix and I’m learning as I go. In my mix, I am using the following mixture amount:
8 parts Coconut Coir
1 part Vermiculite
1 part Earthworm Castings
It is exciting for me to come across an interesting variety or find ones that would be more resistant to diseases. I can say for a fact that the garden will teach you something new every year.
When starting a small garden, I only used what I already have, such as empty cartons, paper rolls, and reusing containers from the nursery. You can make the most out of toilet paper rolls by cutting them in half, then making four slits to close up the bottom to fill up the tubes with seed starting mix. Smaller containers are great to germinate small seeds, but they can be tricky because the growing medium has to be kept moist, or else the seedlings will dry out.
Some seeds, especially larger ones like beans, may germinate better when they are soaked in water before planting. And seeds that have a harder outer shell can benefit from being filed down. I haven’t had any issues with these but these steps can speed up the germination process.
It can feel overwhelming to purchase many new supplies and want to grow a lot at once. As a beginner, it is best to start out small and be resourceful with what you have until you are ready and have the time to tend to a larger garden.
This year, I am growing many varieties of flowers. Starting flowers from seeds or bulbs has made me feel a deeper appreciation when they bloom. It doesn’t matter what type of flower it is, but when they bloom, my excitement for each one is the same. Whether the flowers are edible or not, I think it is just as important to grow them in the garden to attract beneficial insects and pollinators.
Many of my plants from last year were in shock due to the change in temperature and weather conditions. The process of hardening the plants allows them time to acclimate to the weather conditions about 1-2 weeks before they are planted in the ground.
In the morning, I would bring the seedlings outside for a few hours in the shade and then gradually longer hours in the sun. It does take time to move them in and out, but I think it is worth it to let the seedlings adjust to the outdoor temperature I also go through and pick which seedlings I want to keep for the garden beds, as the strong and healthy ones will fare better against pests and diseases. I think that starting plants from seeds is really a labor of love. I get to see the seeds sprout their first true leaves, and after much care and tending, their flowers will bloom, and then with time, I can harvest the ripe fruits to enjoy. It is such a process that brings a lot of joy, no how big or small the garden may be.
Sincerely,
Huong
