How are your seeds doing? Are you keeping them moist. I know I’ve lost a few due to drying out. I thought I would try growing seeds in an egg carton this year. Um. Bad Idea. My little English Daisies popped right up, but quickly died, do to the fact that the carton sucked all the water out of the soil. Learn as you go- eh? I planted half of my seeds in regular potting soil, and the other half in seed starting soil, so I’m curious to see how they compare. So far it seems that the more delicate seeds have struggled in the potting soil. (I was shocked this year when I received several seed packets in the mail with the statement: Caution: Seeds like dust!) One of the things I love about doing things oneself is it helps me understand why somethings cost more than others. As soon as I tried to grow a red bell pepper, I understood why they are priced differently then their green counterparts. The same is true for Begonia for me. (Though my sisters are growing beautifully. Hmmm. Maybe I better go with the seed starting soil for the tiny seeds next year.) Are you growing any flowers? How are your tomatoes coming along? Any herbs?
Anyway, despite some losses, my seeds are progression perkily.
This is my first year growing dahlias. Dahlias by the bulb are quite expensive, so I was very curious about trying them from seed. So far they seem to be thriving. We’ll see how well they blossom.
Nasturtium are also a first for me. I have LOVED them. I think they are the ideal seed to plant with children. You just set the seed on the top of the soil, as it needs sunlight to germinate. As a result you get to watch the seed open and start to root and grow. They are quick growers as you can see. (Also notice that I accidentally double planted. (See the tiny little seedling at the base of that front middle Nasturtium- oops! Maybe I shouldn’t listen to audio books while I seed!) Plus they are so whimsical. I will plant these in the garden to flower and give color. They are edible and therefore make a delightful addition to summer salads. Oh how I love the idea of flowers in my salad!
A closer look at their fun leaves.
Notice the difference in size compared to these young seedlings, that were planted at the same time. It created a bit of a problem because the nasturtium were hitting the top of the cover before the others had even sprouted. (Take note: Grow nasturtium in their own container.)
My peppers are doing well. I’m going to transplant them into individual containers on Saturday. Milk cartons with the top cut off work great for a communal bed.
Now it’s your turn to share. Please send any and all pictures to CravingDirt@gmail.com!
