THINK SOWING ANNUAL seeds in the ground is time wasted and not worth getting your gardening gloves dirty for? Well, that might not be the case. Here are some reasons you should consider direct-sowing seeds. If nothing else, it provides good motivation to get you and your gardening gloves into the garden.
The Ground Rules
Why
Seeds are inexpensive, you have more choice in varieties when you direct-sow, and some plants like zinnias with delicate roots fare better from seed than from nursery transplants.
How To
First read the seed packet directions to determine seed depth and spacing. Then prepare the area by loosening the soil, removing weeds and working in organic compost. Finally, smooth the area.
Row by Row
One way to plant is to make furrows for the seeds. Either tap the seeds out as you move along the rows or individually place larger seeds.
Broad Idea
To create a meadow look, evenly broadcast seeds, like a California native wildflower mix, over a bed or an area, then rake lightly to barely cover the seeds with soil.
Seed Depth
Rule of (a green) thumb is to plant a seed twice as deep as the width of the seed.
H20
No matter what the sowing method, remember that all seeds need a fine spray of water and need to be kept moist (not soggy) until they sprout.
Crowd Pleaser
When seedlings have two sets of leaves, thin those too closely spaced to avoid crowding.
Fresh Idea
Make sure your seeds are fresh and dated for the current year.
Where to Buy
Shop online or at your local nursery.
Tip
The Mill Valley Library has an ingenious seed-lending library called SeedSmart, where you can check out seeds, grow them and return any new seeds.
What to Sow and Grow Now
Sunflower
Nasturtium
Poppies
Nigella
Linaria
Cosmos
Zinnia
Calendula
Radish
Spinach
Beet
Carrot
Cucumber
TIPS FROM THE EXPERT
“The easiest plants to direct-sow would be sunflowers and beans for sure,” Vanessa Lyons, a garden coordinator at Conscious Kitchen – Bayside MLK, says. She recommends planning ahead and getting the kids involved. “Starting in late September through fall, start to harvest, dry, sort and save your favorite seeds. And kids love to save sunflower seeds and flowering heirloom beans, as well as poppies with their rattles and tiny black seeds.”
