12/27/2025
Winter Sowing has begun!! So excited for a third year of this SUPER EASY way to build my perennial supply!! These will be placed outside and become frozen solid blocks until spring when they warm up and the seeds come alive🌱🌿 Then the seedling hunks go directly in the gardens, or potted up to share. I'll do hardy annuals in February and March. Yes, tender veggies like tomatoes, peppers and eggplant can be done too, in March or April! I just happen to have a heated greenhouse at that time☺️🤗
Sistah Tina came to visit last night and I sent her home with two jugs ready to set outside and forget until spring! She reluctantly accepted them, worried they would need maintenance and care. As long as you start with at least 3" of moist soil, give the seeds light or darkness they need by covering them or not, have drainage holes, label, label, label, and tape the cut jug shut from the drying wind, they'll lay dormant until wakened by warmer temps and will know what to do!!
It's by far the easiest way to grow from seed, especially for those plants that require cold stratification in order to germinate. No seeds in the fridge, heat mats and grow lights, and no mess inside, except when prepping and planting the jugs. So worth it!!! And gardening in December and January?! Priceless🥰🫠🙃
I share Winter Sowing with anyone who will listen, and help to share its success at workshops! My favorite story is sharing at a Skills Swap last February. Everyone was hopeful and sent on their way to Winter Sow, many with jugs seeded and ready to give it a try. In early June at the plant stand, one flower friend came up with a hand behind her back, saying I'd never guess what she had to show me. In Feb she had done as instructed... set and forget... outside!!! Wondering what the heck was in her yard, she discovered the forgotten jug with hollyhock seedlings inside🌱🌱 So exciting!!!
Try it... you'll be hooked🤩
