Gardeners, start your seeds!

The snow is melting, and even though it's too wet to work in the garden soil, it's time for gardeners to sow seeds indoors. Get a jump start on the growing season by sowing now.  

Before you start, here are some good things to know:

• Our region's (mid-atlantic) last frost date is  approximately May 15, so read your seed packets to determine when to start your seeds. Check the Farmer's Almanac for your region's last frost date.
  
• Some seeds are better sown directly into the soil, like radishes, but many others will appreciate the head start indoors like tomatoes and peppers. Try this handy growing calculator to learn more about timing seeds.
  
• Don't forget seeds are a great way, sometimes the only way, to grow the more unusual vegetables and flowers you won't find at the local garden center or big box store. 
  
• Sowing seeds is a wonderful way to introduce children to the joys of gardening and give them an appreciation of where food comes from.  

Spring is just around the corner, sow get busy!


by Louise D. Clarke, Morris Arboretum horticulturist