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My First Winter Sown Seeds Have Germinated; When Do I Plant Them?

16 years ago

I tried winter sowing for the first time this year and now have lots of tiny seedlings of several different plants. I live in Zone 6. When should I transfer the seedlings into the ground?

I thought I read in the FAQs that I should wait until the first 'true' leaves appear but, for instance, my foxglove seedlings have looked exactly the same for weeks now; they don't seem to be growing or getting 'true' leaves.

One more question, should I never, ever put my containers in full sun (even when the seeds have germinated and I have propped open the 2 liter containers)? Or is it okay to do that at the end of the whole process right before I put the seedlings in the ground?

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Comments (2)

kqcrna
16 years ago
Those tiny seedlings will develop true leaves and show growth as soon as you get good stretches of warmer weather. You will be amazed at how fast they can grow. In the meantime, they are developing roots.

You can plant out babies after they have those true leaves. Begin with hardy perennials and hardy annuals like poppies and BBs. You might wait to plant out those tender annuals (like zinnias) until you are fairly sure you are past your last frost.

Karen
gardenluv
16 years ago
Just_me: Last year was my first year, and I put my containers in several spots, some being in full sun, just to see what worked best. The containers didn't care where they were, they all grew equally. The only difference I found was that the ones in full sun dried out a lot quicker, and if I didn't either take the top off during the day if it got too warm they fried. I too would wait until they get their first true leaves. They will be a little stronger come plant out time. Good luck!
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