New here, is it too late to start?

16 years ago

Just found this site and have been reading about your winter sowing... I think my zone is 4a, I am just sw of North Bay/ont... Is it too late for me to ry this technique? And also, How do you know if pks of older seed are viable?...Susan

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Comments (4)

ladyk2008
16 years ago
Hi, there Susan. Welcome to Garden Web ! My best suggestion in regards to your question about it possibly being too late to winter sow would be to read the Winter Sowing FAQ. There is a link at the top of the page that says FAQ. The answer to that question is in there, under 'When should I stop?'

Your second question about knowing the viability of older seed packs would be to check their germination. You can find some very basic info from the link at the bottom and also by looking around here a little bit more.... Good luck, Susan. I hope you enjoy your time here.

Happy Gardening,

Kristie

Here is a link that might be useful: viability link
wendy2shoes
16 years ago
Hi Susan..in your zone, you can go for it. You could probably start perennials now. Just try the older seedpacks, you may be surprised at what germinates. Lots of more info at wintersown.org.
If you'd like some hardy annual seeds to try, I'll gladly send you some so you can save money by not buying commercial packs. It only takes a 1.15 stamp and your return address (I'll provide the return bubble envelope.) Email me if you'd like some seeds to get you going.

Wendy
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I'm in zone 3/4(NW WI)and last year I overwintered chives, basil, parsley, thyme, a hot pepper and a hanging tomato plant in east and south facing windows. I supplemented the east window with flourescent bulbs in the room's ceiling light. The plants weren't lush, but they did survive and I harvested a couple of peppers and a few cherry tomatoes throughout the winter. I then planted them outside when weather permitted. I know for a fact that chives and common thyme are hardy here and spread like weeds. If your neighbors have some(or other herbs) ask if you can dig up a small clump to bring in by fall. You may still be able to find perennial herbs at some nurseries and you could still plant them in your sunniest spot. Then put mulch on them over the winter. I planted peppermint, sage, greek oregano, and lemon balm in a raised bed and I have read that they should survive here with the help of mulch. You can always start herbs from seed in late winter/early spring indoors for planting out after frost. Herb gardening rocks! Good luck!
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No definitely not! I am just starting my annual and vegetable seeds this weekend and through April 15th. I live near the NH border. I put my plants out Memorial Day weekend. If you were planning to start perennials the earlier the better if you want them to bloom the first year. Usually they take two seasons to get established. Biggest mistake is people start them too early and the plants are leggy and weak by the time they put them out. Investigate the winter sowing if you don't have space inside.
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northerner_on
16 years ago
Welcome Susan!! As Wendy said, in your zone you can still sow perennials. I am still sowing perennials since we ae still experiencing freezing overnight. I tried the paper towel test for viability this year and it worked well. In fact, I have potted up the few pepper seeds that germinated out of about 15 - very low percentage but that's all I need. Good luck!!!
greylady_gardener
16 years ago
Hi Susan,
As far as viability goes, like everyone said..just go for it. If you don't want to do the paper towel test, then just sow a bit thicker. All it takes is one seedling to grow to maturity and set seed and then you will have lots of seeds for next year's garden! :-)
gg

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New here, is it too late to start?

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ladyk2008

wendy2shoes

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