Growing Plants From Seed

by Richard Anderson

Many People are discovering that growing plants from seed is extremely satisfying, especially as they learn how to do it

well.  An emense amount of satisfaction can be gained by watching a seed germinate and develop through various stages.  In fact, growing plants is considered by many people to be a valuable form of therapy.  Whether you are starting vegetables for the home garden or attempting to germinate seeds for the landscape, starting small is not only rewarding, but makes good sense on a limited budget.  Growing plants from seeds at first may appear to be quite simple; however, in some cases it is not, and a little research and preparation will be necessary to achieve success.

All seeds require a set of environmental conditions for germination.  The most basic of these environmental stimuli include heat, light, water and oxygen.  Replicating the natural environmental conditions for your seed variety is the first step in the germination process.  This can be as simple as a germination chamber in the windowsill or stepping up to a small greenhouse or cold frame in the yard.

 

Damping Off

by Jerry Goodspeed

About this time of the year many people try their hand at starting their own vegetable or bedding plants from seed.  As mentioned in the previous article, this can be fun and interesting, but it can also be a little discouraging if all the plants suddenly die.  Although there are not many problems with starting seeds at home, one disease called damping off can kill a flat of seedlings overnight.

Damping off is caused by a fungal disease that likes moist warm conditions.  Of course, this is also the environment most seedlings prefer.  Damping off affects the seedlings right at the base of the small, new plant.  The stem right at the soil level will turn brown and weaken, causing the seedling to fall over and eventually die.  Of course, many people see the wilting seedling and apply more water, which simply helps the disease spread.

 

The Garden Calendar

> Keep fertilizing and watering poinsettias until the colorful bracts (leaves) fall, then cut back (leaving a few leaves) and let it rest until summer.

> Plant peas in the garden in late February, as soon as the snow is off the ground.

> Consider watering evergreen trees and shrubs if the ground is not frozen and there is no snow cover.

> Check indoor plants for insects and diseases.  Remove any dead or diseased leaves.

>Fertilize fruit trees with nitrogen.

> Purchase seeds from J&J Garden Center early, before your favorites are all sold out!

> Consider buying seeds for a couple of new vegetable varieties available at J&J Garden Center.

(All articles courtesy of Utah State University)