There’s something downright magical and special about cool-weather gardening. It comes with crisp air, the earthy smell of damp soil, and the satisfaction of watching tiny green shoots settle into their new homes before the chaos of summer heat kicks in. While many gardeners pack away their tools when temperatures dip, the smart ones know…
seedlings
9 Ways to Turn Fallen Branches Into Garden Supports
You’re walking through your yard after a storm, coffee in hand, when you spot it: a battlefield of fallen branches. Instead of grumbling about cleanup, what if you saw them as free garden gold? That’s right—those random sticks scattered across your lawn can become rustic, reliable, and downright beautiful garden supports. Why buy expensive trellises…
From Paper Towel to Potting Soil: The Ideal Time to Transplant Your Seedlings
Growing plants from seed is a rewarding process, but it takes more than just patience—it requires timing and care at every stage. One of the most critical steps is knowing exactly when to transplant your seedlings into potting soil. Move them too early, and they may not survive the shock; wait too long, and their…
5 Compelling Reasons to Purchase Seeds Over Harvesting from Fruits
In the world of gardening, the choice between purchasing seeds and harvesting seeds from fruit can significantly impact the success of your planting season. While harvesting seeds from fruit may seem economical and sustainable, there are several compelling reasons to purchase seeds instead. This approach offers advantages ranging from genetic quality to ease of use,…
Buying Seedlings: Getting Your Money’s Worth
I am exhausted to the bone. Normally, at this time of year, I get excited about seed starting. I take stock of my seed supplies, order seeds I’m missing, and start planning out my garden. This year, I’ve yet to do any of that. I’m too overwhelmed and tired, so I’ve decided to forego…
7 Plants You Can Direct Seed
Recently, I’ve mentioned that this year I just don’t have the bandwidth to garden like I usually do. But that doesn’t mean I’m completely abandoning my favorite hobby. Although I didn’t start seedlings indoors, I still have a vast collection of seeds at my disposal, and I’ve already started sketching a plan for what…
10 Top Reasons Why Seeds Don’t Germinate
There are a lot of reasons why seeds don’t germinate. Knowing what can go wrong is the first step in solving the problem. If you’re struggling to start seeds this spring, here are a few things to look out for. Why Aren’t Seeds Germinating? Here are a few common reasons why seeds don’t germinate….
Hardening Off Plants Headache-Free
Hardening off plants is one of my least favorite gardening tasks. It requires a lot of care and attention, and it’s really easy to mess it up. I’ve yet to perfect the shuffle that involves bringing trays of seedling outside then back in. There’s always something that goes wrong. So let me help you avoid…
Soil Block Success!!!
Whenever I experiment with something new during the seed starting season, I feel incredibly anxious. What if it goes wrong? What if I end up with unhealthy starts? Believe me. I’ve made my fair share of mistakes that have resulted in disaster. I tried using jiffy pellets one year, and my seedlings were stunted. Another…
A New Seed Starting Adventure With Soil Blocks
I’m rushing to set up my grow shelves and get going with seed starting this year. I came down with another illness over a week ago and it hit me hard. The second time this winter! And it was a nasty bug that left me unable to move from the couch. I spent my time…