Brussels sprouts are a cool-season crop; they thrive in temperatures between 60°F and 70°F (16-21°C). Mature plants can withstand temperatures as low as 25°F (-4°C). Brussels sprouts require a long growing season—90 to 120 days. Commonly Brussels sprouts are planted in late spring to mid-summer for harvest in fall. Brussels sprouts touched by frost just […] More
It is easy to grow your own plants from seed. By starting your own seedlings you can choose from hundreds of varieties that are not available in garden centers. The cost of plants will be far less than those sold in nurseries. You can also have transplants ready to go into the garden at any […] More
Starting plants from seed can be challenging and satisfying. You will save money—starting your own seed is much less expensive than buying transplants—and you can choose from a greater number of varieties than you will ever find in a garden center. But growing from seed requires time, space, and attention. If you only need a […] More
Seeds sown in warm soil and hot late summer weather can have a difficult time germinating. Moistening the seed bed and protecting seed from hot weather can ensure germination. Here are some simple steps to increase seed sowing success: (1) moisten the seed bed with a sprinkle of water; (2) sow seed; (3) cover the […] More
Seed packets and seed catalogs can help you decide which crops and varieties to grow in your garden. The front of a seed packet or a seed catalog entry will picture the plant at maturity. The back of the packet will describe the plant and where it will grow. Here are common seed packet and […] More
Establishing a seed planting calendar is one of the oldest and wisest gardening maxims. The success of many vegetable and flower sowings is getting the seed started at the right time of the year for germination, growing, and harvesting. Mark on your garden calendar when seeds should be sown and when you actually sow them. […] More
Seed catalogs arrive and garden planning for next spring and summer can begin in late autumn and winter. Choosing Seed. Choose seed from seed companies that are long on information; look for seed packets or seed catalogs that tell you what it takes to start seeds and grow plants: germination temperature and days to germination, […] More
Most seeds need only moisture and warmth in order to sprout. But some seeds may have additional requirements. Check seed packets or planting guides for germination and cultural tips for the seeds you are planting. Light. Some seeds such as beans need darkness in order to germinate; other seeds such a lettuce need light. Seeds […] More
Use runners from existing strawberry plants to start new strawberry beds each year to maintain sufficient yield from your home garden. Strawberry plants are productive for three to five years. As time goes by, aging plants yield smaller and fewer berries. Renewing your strawberry patch each year will ensure you never run low of tasty […] More
Carrots and other carrot family crops such as parsley and parsnips can be slow to germinate. They require consistently moist soil and sometimes two weeks or more for germination. Dry or windy weather can mean slow or no germination for carrots. Pre-sprouting is the best way to short-cut carrot germination time and ensure a crop; […] More
Successful seed and seedlings growth depend on moisture, warmth, air, and light. Seeds and seedlings, as well, require optimal temperatures, even watering, open air circulation, and bright light to thrive. When vegetable seeds fail to sprout or when seedlings wither and die what could the problem be? Often the answer is simple. Seeds Fail to […] More
Pre-sprouting vegetable seed will help you avoid over-sowing in the greenhouse or garden. Pre-sprouting also answers the question: Is this seed still viable? To pre-sprout seeds place the seeds on a damp paper towel. Make sure that the seeds are well spaced and not touching one another. Fold the towel in half. Alternatively, place the […] More
Stephen Albert