There’s still a half a foot of snow on the ground in my backyard, but we’re making progress. Yesterday the temperature climbed above 50 degrees for the first time in more than 90 looooong days. It felt so good to be outside even if you had to wade through ankle-high puddles just to take a simple walk around the block. In Wisconsin the first 50-degree, pre-Spring day means everyone drives around with their car windows down, and it’s not unusual to see people walking in shorts and t-shirts—especially on the UW-Madison campus. I even opened a few windows to let in some fresh air.
Because of this winter-that-won’t-die I delayed my seed-sowing schedule by a week or two. I can always double-up if spring eventually materializes, but more than a few meteorologists are warning us to expect a below-normal March and April. More light snow returns tonight.
I don’t need my seedlings to be in any sort of hurry, so of course my rudbeckias picked this year to have their best germination rate ever. I’ve never seen anything like it. I usually have to reseed them–sometimes more than once—but this year they are popping like popcorn.
I also sowed some pansy seeds the first week. Some types prefer a chilling period which I skipped, and they also need darkness to germinate. I simply put a black garbage bag over their dome. The seed packet said they should germinate in 14 to 21 days. It only took 3 days. What’s going on?
Yesterday’s seed-sowing batch included nicotianas which are ridiculously tiny seeds that usually take a week or so to germinate. If they start appearing within a few days I’m going to have to assume there’s some sort of seedling mutiny occurring. Either that or they’re as sick of winter as I am.
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Hi Em, I’m still here despite the terriblly cold, snowy and windy Winter we have experienced. I have a few seed started. Excellent germination for the Rudbeckis, except for Cappiccino. But did get five plants. I sowed a packet of Pansy, but poor germination. These were older seed; should have checked the germination rate earlier. As well I have four types of Dahlias sprouted and ready to go under lights.
I have decided to try Zinnias – Zaraha Bonfire from Vesey’s and a few Profusion Double Fire.
I’ve decided to reduce my indoor seeding this year, but will be starting a few types of Calendula and a few Tomato seed. Anything else I’ll buy!
Hope your seeding is going well.
I frequently check into your site to enjoy the beauty that surrounds you! As I’ve said before your flowers are beautiful and your photography is superb! James
Thanks for the kind words, James! Hang in there, Spring has to come soon!
Spring has sprung, I think. Last few days have been above freezing and the snow is getting a cutting. My Rudbeckia and Dahlias from seed are doing well under my light setup. I’ll soon be ready to sow my Calendula. Last year with your help I had excellent results. But I can’t remember the temperature I used to germinate the seed. Also could I start them in a 4 by 6 container and then transplant them in the cell packs? I might not have too many gaps that way. I value your help so much.
How is your seeding coming along. I guess you will be able to put them outside by the middle of May. I have to wait until at least the middle of June to be on the safe side. Happy gardening. James
How is your seed coming along? I suppose you have most of your seeding done.
I’m glad to hear you’re finally making some progress with the weather. We got into the 60s this week and I was able to get outside and start clearing all the leaves out of my flowerbeds, but a big storm system is moving through this weekend that will change our heavy rain to snow and end in an inch or two of accumulation by Monday morning. Two steps forward, two steps back.
I’m a little over half done with my seed sowing. I should be three-quarters of the way done by now, but the extended forecast continues to paint a very chilly May, so I’m holding off. If my plants get too tall for the grow lights, it’s big trouble for me. I’m trying to keep my seedlings growing as slowly as possible by holding off on fertilizing and starting everything a week or two later than usual.
I would think you should have no problems starting your calendulas in a container and transplanting them. They don’t seem to mind transplanting at all. I even move around volunteers that pop up in my flowerbeds with success. As far as germination temperature, calendulas are cool-season annuals (although now being bred to withstand higher temps), so I would think mid-60s (F) would be warm enough to awaken the seeds. And they can definitely handle higher germination temperatures.
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