Winter seed sowing It is a gardening technique that involves sowing seeds in transparent, closed containers. In winter, we leave them in a warm room. Thanks to this method Seeds are effectively protected against extreme weather conditions. They can develop freely despite the fact that frosts are still outside. And this, of course, translates into faster flowering and yielding of plants. This is very important because The seedling can be moved to the garden only after May 15when they finally give up frost.
Thanks to this method, you do not need to book a place in the garden or greenhouse – Plant containers can be stored at home on the windowsill or in another warm place. The microclimate created in containers imitate ideal conditions for growth, increasing the effectiveness of seed germination and the development of healthy seedlings. Closed containers limit moisture loss and reduce the need for frequent watering.
The so -called “greenhouse five”, or five species of plants extremely resistant and decorative, is perfect for winter sowing. Begonia is constantly blooming It impresses with multi -colored flowers and fleshy leaves, which makes it the perfect choice for discounts and pots. Garden petuniaknown for effective flowers in intense colors, is perfect for balcony boxes. Shiny sagethanks to its intensely red flowers, it introduces a dynamic accent to each garden.
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A Cape lobeliawith small, delicate flowers in shades of blue and pink, it is great for borders. This group is supplemented by Mexican Żeniszekwhose fluffy, blue flowers resembling small pompoms are a subtle decoration and pots.
In January, it is also worth sowing seeds of perennials and perennial flowers, such as:
- malwa (Alcea rosea),
- mak (Papaver spp.),
- advertising (Verbena bonariensis),
- larkspur (Delphinium spp.).
In February and March, you can start sowing one -year -old plants resistant to cold, i.e. calendula (Calendula officinalis) the nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus).
Winter sowing is a great way to start the gardening season earlier. Thanks to this, plants will have more time for development, and we will be able to enjoy earlier crops. However, we must remember that in the case of January sowing, additional lighting for germinating seedlings is necessary, because the day is still too short.
- Choose transparent plastic containers with lids, e.g. drink bottles. Cut their upper part, creating something like a pot with a lid. In the bottom, make drainage holes to ensure the outflow of excess water.
- Fill in the containers a mixture of garden soil and compost. The substrate should be light and permeable. Gently level them out and slightly knead them.
- Spread the seeds on the surface of the ground. Cover the seeds of embarrassment and sage with a thin layer of soil – Its thickness should be 2-3 times greater than the seed diameter. Leave the small seeds of begonia, petunia and lobelia on the surface, slightly pressing them into the ground to ensure their contact with the ground.
- Morest the substrate with a washer, taking care of even hydration.
- Cover the containers with transparent foil or lid, e.g. from plexiglass. Set them in a warm place at a temperature of about 18-20 ° Cwhere they will have access to natural light, e.g. on the windowsill.
- Each container mark with the name of sown species, e.g. by attaching labels or packaging after seeds. This will facilitate the identification of plants at later stages.
- When you notice the first seedlings, Remove the cover and sprinkle the substrate regularly, maintaining its constant humidity. Avoid drying the earth that can harm young plants.
- If the seedlings grow too densely Sleep them, when the first appropriate leaves appear. Port them to separate containers to provide them with more space for growth.
Hard your plants before blowing up. For about two weeks, put them outside for a few hours a day, gradually getting used to the conditions outside. Choose a moderate temperature days and avoid exposing to strong winds.
