Straightforward Guide for Novices: Sowing Six Simple Garden Crops Without Indoor Seed Germination Preparation
In the world of gardening, the choice between direct sowing seeds and transplanting seedlings can often be a topic of debate. However, for certain crops, direct sowing can offer several advantages.
For instance, cucumbers and melons, cousins of squash and zucchini, are not fond of being transplanted, with cucumbers being particularly fussy. Instead, these crops are best grown by sowing seeds directly into the garden soil.
Six such crops that thrive when sown directly are carrots, parsnips, turnips, lettuce, garlic, and asparagus. Carrots and parsnips, with their delicate roots, do not transplant well, while turnip seeds germinate quickly and are easy to grow. Lettuce seeds sprout rapidly even in cooler weather, and garlic and asparagus are planted as cloves and crowns, respectively, directly into the soil.
Growing beans, corn, squash, and zucchini from seeds can also be easier and more economical than purchasing transplants. Corn should be planted directly from seed for proper pollination and cost-effectiveness, and it's recommended to plant at least 16 corn plants for optimal pollination.
Beans should be planted when the soil temperature reaches 75F, and directly planting seeds in the garden avoids the risk of transplant shock, potentially leading to a better harvest. It's also easier to grow a wider variety of beans, including different green bean varieties, from seeds directly in the garden.
However, some crops such as melons may fare better when transplanted if planted in a deep container. Squash and zucchini may experience transplant shock when relocated, and planting seeds directly in the garden can result in a better harvest.
To ensure the best results, it's essential to check the soil temperature before planting using a soil thermometer. Each crop has an ideal soil temperature for germination, and a Seed Starting Quick Reference Guide is available for reference.
Beginning gardeners may find it beneficial to grow beans, corn, squash, and zucchini from seeds directly in the garden. The Beginner's Garden Podcast discusses six crops that should be grown from seed directly in the garden.
When starting squash or zucchini indoors, plant 2-3 weeks before the average first frost and plant out as soon as the last frost has passed to avoid transplant shock. To limit transplant shock when starting squash or zucchini indoors, consider using soil blocking or peat pellets.
In conclusion, direct sowing seeds simplifies the process, saves time, and reduces transplant shock, with many seeds germinating reliably in natural outdoor conditions. By understanding the unique needs of each crop, gardeners can make informed decisions to achieve a bountiful harvest.
- For instance, when it comes to gardening, direct sowing seeds can be more advantageous for crops like cucumbers and melons, carrots, parsnips, turnips, lettuce, garlic, and asparagus.
- Growing beans, corn, squash, and zucchini from seeds directly in the garden can be a cost-effective and easier method compared to purchasing transplants.
- Gardeners who are just starting out may find it beneficial to learn from resources like the Beginner's Garden Podcast, which discusses the six crops that are best grown from seed directly in the garden.
- To achieve the best results, it's crucial to check the soil temperature using a soil thermometer and considering garden printables and guides like the Seed Starting Quick Reference Guide for each crop's ideal soil temperature for germination.
