Garden Playbook

The final module focuses on starting plants from seeds, a very rewarding start to a garden. Growing from seed can seem intimidating, but with the right approach and tools, it’s easier than you think. This module walks through our processes and we'll share some common myths.

1. Seed Selection

Choosing the right seeds is the first step to successful germination and growth.

• Trialed and Trusted Seeds:

  • All our seeds are tested for germination and performance. We only offer varieties that are proven to thrive in garden conditions. Not all seeds are equal. Fresh, quality seeds make a huge difference.

• Modern Advancements:

  • Many seeds today benefit from treatments that improve germination rates, making it easier to start perennials and more challenging species.

2. Preparing to Plant

Before sowing, it’s essential to have the right setup and tools.

• Soil Blocks:

  • We recommend soil blocks as a sustainable, effective way to start seeds. They encourage strong root growth without the need for plastic pots.

• Light and Heat:

  • Provide ample light, from grow lights, and maintain consistent warmth with heat mats if necessary. LED lights are quite affordable now - don't rely on window light.

• Watering:

  • Keep soil evenly moist but avoid overwatering, which can lead to damping-off disease. Getting this balance right is the key to seed starting, and in our experience it requires practice.

3. Seed Myth-Busting

Starting plants from seed comes with misconceptions that may discourage beginners. Let’s set the record straight:

• Myth 1: "It’s hard to start perennials from seeds."

  • Truth: Advances in seed treatment and proper techniques make starting perennials much easier. Many germinate within days with the right conditions.

• Myth 2: "Perennials grown from seed won’t bloom in the first year."

  • Truth: While some perennials may take longer, many are capable of blooming their first year with proper care and timing.

• Myth 3: "Certain seeds always need stratification."

  • Truth: While stratification can help some species, treated seeds or proper germination environments often bypass this requirement. For example, our coneflowers germinate in a week without cold stratification. Many hours were wasted watching unnecessary stratification videos...

4. Caring for Seedlings

Once your seeds sprout, care and attention ensure healthy, robust plants.

• Thinning:

  • Thin seedlings to prevent overcrowding and encourage stronger growth. This is the toughest one to do - nobody wants to toss out a new and beautiful stem, but must be done.

• Transplanting:

  • Move seedlings to larger soil blocks or outdoor beds when they develop their first true leaves. They will take off when given more room.

• Hardening Off:

  • Gradually introduce seedlings to outdoor conditions by placing them outside for increasing amounts of time each day before transplanting. We find a few days works fine for hardy perennials - you don't need a 2 week hardening plan as annuals may.

5. From Seed to Garden

Growing plants from seed allows you to:

• Save money while filling large spaces with plants.

• Enjoy the satisfaction of nurturing plants from their earliest stages.

• Access a wider variety of plants, including hard-to-find or specialty species. This is why we started from seed. 

By following these steps, you’ll gain confidence in starting plants from seed and build a garden that’s truly your own, from the ground up.

Bringing It All Together

Starting plants from seeds is both an art and a science, but it’s also one of the most rewarding parts of gardening. Whether you’re starting a few plants or tackling a large project, the journey from seed to thriving garden is one you’ll always remember.