Do you like to get a jump start on the gardening season? If so, you should try winter seed sowing. Keep reading to see how easy it can be.

What are the Benefits?

Winter seed sowing has many benefits. First, there’s no expensive equipment to purchase. Second, you put the seeds outside so they don’t clutter up your home. Third, you will grow hardy little plants that don’t need to be “hardened off”. Fourth, it’s extremely cost effective and finally, you can start planting MUCH earlier.

What you need!

Winter seed sowing is simple. There’s not much to it and no expensive equipment is needed. You will need  soil, a container and seeds.

To begin, you will need scissors, duct tape, an old knife and the following:

Soil: Always choose the best soil you can afford. I like an all purpose soil like this organic, all purpose option from Miracle Grow.

Containers: There are tons of options here, but my favourites are empty milk jugs or kitty litter containers.  The plastic must be transparent so sunlight can get through and it must be deep enough to accommodate 3-4 inches of soil and another 4ish inches so your little plant babies can grow. In essence, you will be making a tiny greenhouse for your seeds.

Seeds: You do want to use the correct type of seeds which include cold hard annuals, herbs, perennials that are native where you live or cold weather veggies like broccoli, cabbage and kale. When deciding, you can look for buzz-words on seed packets to help you: “cold stratification,” “direct sow,” and “self-sowing” are usually excellent choices.

How to do it:

1. To start winter seed sowing, you will first need to wash out your containers so that they are free from residue.
2. Next, using a metal knife (I find an exact knife works beautifully) make a few drainage holes in the bottom of your container. You could also use a drill.
3. Now, using Scissors, you will want to cut your container in half so that you have a bottom and a top. If using a container with a handle, you can stop short of cutting all the way through and let the handle be “hinged.”
4. Next, fill the bottom half of your container with 3-4 inches of dampened potting soil. NOT soaking wet, just barely moist.
5. Now, plant your seeds. I like to space them out so they are easier to pull apart and transplant after they’ve grown. Be sure to water them in after planting.
6. Put the “top” or “lid” back on and using duct tape, secure it firmly to the bottom. You want a tight fit. Be sure you’ve removed any cap that was on the container. You won’t need it. The opening at the top is what will let moisture into your makeshift greenhouse.
7. Label your creation so you remember what seeds you planted. I suggest a paint pen or permanent marker.
8. Move your container outside and forget about them for a few months. Be sure to consider a spot that is out of reach from kiddos, pets and other varmints. I also like to choose a location that is a bit protected from wind so they don’t blow around.

Your seeds will begin growing as conditions become right. Check from time to time as seeds will begin germinating as spring approaches. Once the seedlings appear, you want to ensure that they don’t dry out. Believe it or not, containers will get pretty warm in the sun. Your plant babies will grow enough to reach the top of your container and it’ll be time to take the lid off.

At this point, you will protect them from frost just like any plant and make sure they have water. When the ground is workable, they can be transplanted into your garden or permanent containers.

Sowing winter seeds is a fantastic way to stretch your garden budget. Consider veggies, annuals and herbs. Enjoy!