Winter Seed Sowing

WINTER SOWING

How Did Winter Sowing Come To Be

• Developed over 20 years ago by a woman named Trudy Davidoff in conjunction with the USDA

• She wanted to come up with an easy and economical way to propagate native plants and seeds

• Recognized by USDA as an authentic gardening method

Why Winter Sow?

“A propagation method used throughout the winter where temperate climate seeds are sown into protective vented containers and placed outdoors to foster a naturally timed, high percentage germination of climate tolerant seedlings” (USDA)

• Typically yields an excellent germination rate

• Cost effective

• No grow lights or potting trays needed

• Keeps gardeners busy in “off” months

• Can grow a variety of plants

• Get a head start on spring gardens

• Plants grow hardier roots and stems

• No stratification, hardening off plants or scarification necessary - nature does this!

• Repurpose household containers

• No seed starting mix necessary

• Easier than growing indoors

SUPPLIES

• Your choice of containers that follow guidelines

• Potting soil (ensure there are no moisture retention additives, but fertilizer is OK to have)

• Tape (duck, packing, or painter’s tape)

• Labels and/or markers (gardening markers or Sharpies are both OK)

• Tub or bin to moisten soil (can mix with hands or small shovel)

• Spray bottle to gently moisten seeds when planted

• Way to keep track of what was planted and when

Types of Containers You Can Use

No matter what kind of container you choose, be sure to have the holes in the lid so moisture (rain and/or snow) can get inside the container to water the soil and seeds.  You also need holes in the bottom of the container so excess moisture can drain out.  If using milk jugs, it needs drainage holes in the bottom of the jug.

PREPARING CONTAINERS

• Collect and wash translucent jugs

• Discard jug cap

• Make 4 to 6 drainage holes in bottom of jug

• Cut jug in half leaving a hinge

• Label jug with a weather resistant marker

HOW TO PLANT

• Put at least 4 inches of moist potting soil mix in bottom of jug

• Scatter seeds on top of potting soil and press seeds into soil to make contact

• Tape jug together

• Set jugs outside where rain or snow can enter top.  Water if needed.

CARING FOR CONTAINERS

• Containers should be placed in a sunny location.  Be sure this location is away from the protection of buildings

• Exposure to sun, rain and snow is key

• Provide protection from wind

• Check jugs regularly for moisture level.  If you do not see condensation inside of your container, it is time to water

• Water containers by undoing the seal, however, be sure to reseal carefully when finished

• If planting annuals, be sure to provide protection from the frost or bring them in overnight, as they will freeze once they have germinated

  TRANSPLANTING

  • When the seedlings have 2 sets of “real” leaves or are 2 inches tall, it’s time to plant as a “hunk” of seeds or individual seedlings

  • Cotyledons or “seed leaves” are the first set of leaves your seedlings grow and are not “real leaves”

  • If using the “hunk of seeds” method, follow these steps:

  • Water your container, then let it drain

  • Push on the bottom of the container to loosen the seedlings

  • Lay them on the ground

  • Use a knife or trowel to cut it into brownie sized squares

  • Replant them (seedlings can be transplanted into your garden or you can pot them up in new potting soil to grow more and plant out later.  NOTE:  because they were grown outside, you must keep them outside

  • Water them (using 1/4 strength of fertilizer is recommended)

  • If NOT using the “hunk of seeds” methods, follow these steps

  • Use a spoon to scoop out larger seedlings

  • OR use a fork to separate seedlings

  NOTE:

  • Seedlings are tough and you can choose how you transplant them

  • Thinning is not necessary