I planted zinnia, broccoli and onions seeds outside using the styrafoam cooler with a piece of plexiglass on top. I knew that once they germinate that I can't leave the top on but wasn't sure what I needed to do before that happens. Because I had that fear that they needed warmer temps, I've only planted a few so far. I'm going to plant some more but keep them inside for now. I didn't want to have to go through the trouble of taking them in/out later to get them use to the temps outside (stratification I think it is called?)

Well, unfortunately I canÂt do anything about our 80-degree temps during the day, though nights are a bit cooler. Is that whatÂs keeping them from getting any bigger? They have to be about 8 weeks from germination by now but they are miniscule in sizeÂÂweÂre talking no height to speak of and not even 1 mm (yes, you read that right) wide. Nowhere near big enough to plant out. They are not going dormant, they are just sitting there. How can I encourage them to grow more?

Seeds- I habitually try to "hold some over" just in case I do not get the lil ones to grow on- and that is if there is enough to do that with- and I really want to try that plant. There are many more seeds that will keep a high germination rate for years- there are a few though that are best sown fresh- a little research should give you the info you need to know to save or sow. Now- with established plants that I collect seeds from- I try to get those seeds out there to folks who may want to try them. Swaps- Exchanges- and bringing them to other gardeners and garden groups I know. Seedlings- I grow on what I can find room for- and seem to add new beds every year.... But I do offer up MANY MANY seedlings/plants to friends and gardeners and garden groups for their sales- and bring to local exchanges in the spring and fall. It is a good feeling to be able to share what you have with others. And when you can do that on a large scale- well- the feeling is even better! Every year- there are far too many seeds to try- and far too many seedlings to plant- but- there are also many more new people to meet and share the wealth with also. Last year- my sister found a country food shelf that actually wanted all the excess vegi seedlings I started to give to their folks in need. Had I know that was an option open to me- I would have started every vegi seed I had to give to them! As it was- they had a bunch to share around. Last year was the first year that I had plants still in their sowing containers come fall. It was a bit sad to see the lost potential of those that did not get planted soon enough- but- I did get them planted. It is a bit much to be planting out seedlings all summer long- but know you are not alone- there are many of us in this forum who's "eyes" are bigger than their garden beds (look at some spring and summer past posts)... And- there are ways to not be wasteful- Share- Swap- Give- Enjoy! And, if it comes down to it- compost. Natures way of using what was- to give to what will be. Enjoy your new WS experience- plant with abandon! Share your joy! Julie

Twelve cherry tomato seeds! YouÂre going to have a lot of little tomatoes if those all sprout. I start my tomatoes indoors when outside temps stay in the 40s at night. When they have true leaves, I stick them outside in a milk jug thatÂs cut almost completely in half (next to the brick foundation of the house for extra heat/protection). It serves as a mini-green house. If the weather is bad, tip the top back over the plant. Sunny and fair? Tip it open. No need to harden them off before planting. They stay short, with a thick main stem and develop a good root system. And best of all, more room for the other plants. Jen