Welcome to April. April finds us looking forward to spring cleaning, watching the robins return to the dormant grassy fields and putting away the shovels and snow boots. But today, while still cool outside, we are thinking “planting time!” We are thinking about new growth, small buds, seedlings, and the excitement of the flowers to come. So, we are pulling out the seedling trays, garden gloves and watering cans.
It’s time to plant the petunia seeds, which happen to be my “go to” favorites, or another flower or herb you may be interested in growing.
Starting with the seed tray, fill it a little more than half full with a seed starting medium. Lightly firm the soil with your hand or small shovel. Time to sow our seeds. While some seeds require light to germinate, others need to be covered. The seed packet should have instructions on starting your seeds. If seeds need light to germinate, then sprinkle them over the top of the soil. If not, lightly cover the seeds with a small layer of planting medium, and gently firm the soil.
Water your seed trays well. I use a handheld multipurpose pump sprayer. I set it on a light mist to ensure the least possible damage to new seedlings. Be sure to label your seed tray with the type of seed and the date you planted your seeds. Cover with a clear plastic tray lid. This helps to keep the heat and humidity inside the tray. If your seedlings require light, place the tray in a sunny spot, or use a grow lamp, and keep the lamp approximately 4-5 inches above the tray cover. Germination varies among different seed types, ranging from 7-14 days. To speed up germination time, place your seed trays on a heated seedling mat or in a warm place. Be sure to peek at your seed trays daily to check on soil dampness. If the soil looks and feels dry, give it a light spray.
Once you get sprouts, remove the cover and watch them grow. Once the sprouts get a few inches high, thin them out into small pots with potting soil. Be sure to give the roots plenty of room. You will be ready to bring them outdoors once the threat of frost is past. I like to mix my petunia colors to make ornate arrangements for my planters and add different greenery for fillers. Once they bloom, your young seedlings will provide a display of beauty and color to your summer planters, and supply beneficial pollen to local bees and butterflies. Happy gardening everyone, and be sure to add a touch of spring with some early seed planting. Next we will talk about hardening off your indoor Plants.
Cindy Dixon is the proprietor of the Higley Garden Cart.