Last chance to seed native perennial flowers + the Wintersowing Method
The first seeds I am stocking in the Little Free Cabinets are native flowers for pollinators. The window to sow these seeds is rapidly closing so act quickly if you would like to add flowers for pollinators to your outdoor space. Most native plants need a certain amount of cold period to get the seed coat to break open and allow for germination. After this week, the chances of success with these perennial seeds will get slimmer, but every act of gardening is an experiment!
The good news is that starting these seeds can be super easy using the Winter Sowing method that makes use of recyclable containers you may have on hand. This method skips the need for traditional indoor seed starting equipment. Do not shop for any special trays, lights, heat mats and the need to acclimate plants. None of that is necessary. What do you need?
Containers: Milk jugs, 1 to 2-liter soda or juice bottles, chicken rotisserie or layer cake containers, Salad boxes at least 4” tall, Any other tall clear or white plastic container that is empty and clean.
Potting Soil: Most any regular potting soil is suitable for wintersowing. Ironically, “Seed starting mix” is less desirable because it has less nutrients. Where to get potting soil? If you want to stay away from big box stores, consider visiting Eggplant Urban Farm Supply, who is offering phone orders and car delivery. Another great place for soil that is near the 55103/55104 areas is Ecogarden Supply, which is doing phone orders and car delivery only. Do call ahead to these establishments, because their operations may change without much notice.
Seeds! These can be picked up at the #OutPlantTheOutbreak cabinets. In mid-March, you can wintersow more than perennial plants. It is a great time to get cold crop veggies and some herbs going too. I will get this seed out soon!
