Dreaming of summer melons, cucumbers, peppers, or tomatoes? Many of us are getting impatient to start planting and working in the garden. Good news: there are plenty of ways to start your seedlings indoors and prepare for a successful summer garden.
Get Seeds Started Indoors
Most summer vegetable seeds, such as tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants, should be started indoors in the winter, especially in areas with short growing seasons. Even if you don’t have a greenhouse, you can start seeds in trays using germination systems like the Heated Germination Station or the Hot House. These systems include a 72-cell tray, a heat mat, and a dome. If you lack a sunny spot, consider adding grow lights.
Our Seed Starting Kit is an all-in-one solution with everything you need to begin your gardening journey.
Moving Seedlings Outside
Once your seeds have grown into healthy seedlings, it’s time to move them outdoors. However, for most regions, temperatures are still too cold. Protect your plants from late freezes or unpredictable weather with these methods:
Cold Frames or Hot Beds
Keep seedlings warm with the sun’s heat or by creating a hot bed using heating cables or natural heat from manure. Read our blog on using manure to create a hotbed or watch our video on cold frames and hotbeds.
Low Tunnels
Create a low tunnel with wire hoops or PVC pipe covered with greenhouse plastic, floating row covers, or breathable materials like Dio-Betalon. Watch our video tutorial on building low tunnels for frost protection.
Floating Row Covers
Lay floating row covers like Agribon directly on plants to protect them from frost. For more precise protection, consider using Solar Bells, which create a mini-greenhouse effect for individual plants.
Don't Forget to Water
Ensure your seedlings receive enough water while tucked in their protective shelters. A consistent watering schedule is essential for their growth. Additionally, weekly feeding with a liquid fertilizer such as fish and kelp can support their development.
Plan for Summer Success
Summer is just around the corner, and so is your beautiful garden. By starting seeds early and using protective methods like cold frames, low tunnels, and row covers, you’ll give your garden the best chance to thrive.
For more tips, check out our summer gardening checklist.
Get started now and enjoy the fruits of your labor!
