It’s February . . . Start Planting!

By: Ron Cusano           Feb. 20, 2010                             Vol. 2  Article 1014

     It’s late February, there is a fairly thick snow covering on the ground, the forecast is calling for a Wintery mix Monday & Tuesday, and possible accumulating snow for Thursday. So what does that tell you! No, I haven’t taken leave of my senses . . . it’s time to start planting, indoors! Serious, successful gardeners know that NOW is the time to start many types of vegetable seeds indoors, and in March, just a few weeks away, outdoor direct seeding on many varieties will be on the schedule.
     I start seeds indoors on a “heat mat”, in covered plant trays, under a grow light.  The heat mat creates enough heat to bring quick germination, and maintain good growth in young seedlings. The covered plant tray creates a moist, humid environment which is ideal for rapid, healthy plant development. The grow light provides all the elements of natural light, which regulate florescent lights can not do.
     Over the past week, I have started Cayenne Peppers, Bell Peppers, Broccoli, Basil and Italian Parsley. All of these will be ready to go out into a cold frame in about 6-weeks or so. I will be starting my Eggplant around March 1st and tomatoes by March 15th.  Why so early? Peppers and basil are notorious for slow germination and slow growth, so in order to get a good jump on the season, I like to start them 10 - 12 weeks before I plan to set them out.  Broccoli & Parsley can take a good frost, and actually do well in cold soil, so an early start is a must. For a look at my seed starting and planting schedule for this season, click here!
     As soon as the ground is free from snow cover, and as long as it’s not saturated, I will be preparing some of my beds for early direct seeding.  Peas, carrots, romaine, lettuce and beets, all germinate best and grow well in cold, Spring soil. In years past, I even planted these crops during February thaws, followed by heave snow and ice conditions, and got some of the best crops ever!      One of the biggest mistakes novice gardeners make, is to wait too long to start seeds and direct seed outdoors.  For some great tips on how to plant seedlings outdoors, long before the “experts” say you should, read my article entitled, “How To Plant 1-Month Early” from April, 2009.

Blessings,

Ron
“The Garden Guy”