{"id":2014,"date":"2024-12-09T07:00:00","date_gmt":"2024-12-09T07:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/proxy-botanicalinterestscom.epicgardening.com\/community\/blog\/?p=2014"},"modified":"2026-02-25T16:33:30","modified_gmt":"2026-02-25T16:33:30","slug":"start-seeds-outdoors","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/start-seeds-outdoors\/","title":{"rendered":"How and When to Start Seeds Outdoors"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"table-of-contents\">\n    <div class=\"table-of-contents__top\">\n        <p class=\"table-of-contents__title\">\n            Contents        <\/p>\n        <button class=\"btn--small table-of-contents__action\" aria-label=\"Toggle table of contents\"><\/button>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"table-of-contents__list\" style=\"display: none;\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<p>Seed starting is like magic. You put tiny, hard seeds into the dirt, and they sprout into plants with beautiful flowers and delicious fruits. Most gardeners <a href=\"https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/start-seeds-indoors\/\">start seeds indoors<\/a> and transplant mature specimens outdoors when ready. However, outdoor seed sowing is <strong>best for species with sensitive roots<\/strong>, cold-loving crops, and plants that dislike change.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When you sow your plants outdoors, they must adapt to your local climate to survive. There are some techniques we\u2019ll use to create optimal growing conditions that boost germination rates. Despite these techniques, you must have a level of trust in your seeds. You must believe they\u2019ll sprout!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>And sprout they will. You\u2019ll see seedlings a few days or weeks after planting. Some seeds require <strong>weeks or even months<\/strong> to germinate. Have patience, start some backup plants indoors, and watch as nature does the work for you.<\/p>\n\n\n    <div>\n                    <p class='block-title'>Precious Pollinators Seed Shaker<\/p>        \n        <div class=\"product-info\">\n                            <figure class=\"product-info__media\">\n                    <img loading=\"lazy\" src='https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Precious_20Pollinators_20Flower_20Mix_20Seed_20Shaker-436x436.webp' alt=\"\" width='436' height='436'>                <\/figure>\n            \n                            <div class=\"product-info__content\">\n                    <div class=\"txt-styles\">\n                        <p>Make outdoor sowing easier with a convenient seed shaker mix! Each shaker covers 800 square feet for hassle-free direct sowing. The &#8216;Precious Pollinators&#8217; mix contains beloved pollinator favorites like:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Purple coneflower<\/li>\n<li>Giant zinnia<\/li>\n<li>Coreopsis<\/li>\n<li>Phacelia, and more!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Shop this and other easy shaker mixes at the Botanical Interests shop. <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a class='btn' href='https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/collections\/seed-shakers?_pos=1&amp;_psq=seed+shaker&amp;_ss=e&amp;_v=1.0' target=\"_blank\" rel='sponsored noopener'> Shop<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n\n            <\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1920\" height=\"2560\" src=\"https:\/\/proxy-botanicalinterestscom.epicgardening.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Outdoor-sowing-guide-2026-catalog-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-7006\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Outdoor-sowing-guide-2026-catalog-scaled.jpg 1920w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Outdoor-sowing-guide-2026-catalog-225x300.jpg 225w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Outdoor-sowing-guide-2026-catalog-768x1024.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Outdoor-sowing-guide-2026-catalog-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Outdoor-sowing-guide-2026-catalog-1536x2048.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Outdoor-sowing-guide-2026-catalog-920x1227.jpg 920w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Outdoor-sowing-guide-2026-catalog-414x552.jpg 414w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"When_to_Start_Seeds_Outdoors\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">When to Start Seeds Outdoors<\/h2>\n\n\n<div>\n\n\n\n<p>Using your first and last average frost dates is best to determine when to start seeds. To determine your approximate last frost dates for planting, input your zip code into <a href=\"https:\/\/garden.org\/apps\/frost-dates\/\">this calculator<\/a> from the National Gardening Association. This information will allow you to adapt your gardening strategy to your climate, helping you take advantage of every opportunity during the growing season.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"9 Crops You Should ONLY Direct Sow (And Why)\" width=\"920\" height=\"518\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/a6XaZR0OfhY?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"Follow_Nature\u2019s_Lead\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Follow Nature\u2019s Lead<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"900\" src=\"https:\/\/proxy-botanicalinterestscom.epicgardening.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Shutterstock_1907763136.jpg\" alt=\"The seed head of an umbel-shaped flower stands out against a gray sky. \" class=\"wp-image-2169\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Shutterstock_1907763136.jpg 1600w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Shutterstock_1907763136-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Shutterstock_1907763136-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Shutterstock_1907763136-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Shutterstock_1907763136-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Shutterstock_1907763136-920x518.jpg 920w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Shutterstock_1907763136-414x233.jpg 414w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Many plants naturally drop their seeds in the fall. <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Some species are easier than others when it comes to outdoor sowing. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/collections\/flowers?sort_by=best-selling&amp;filter.p.m.filter.classification=Native&amp;filter.v.price.gte=&amp;filter.v.price.lte=\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Native plants<\/a> already have adaptations to your local climate\u2014<strong>they\u2019ll sprout readily <\/strong>with little help or maintenance. Simply plant them when they naturally fall to the ground in your region. For many plants, this means direct sowing in fall, allowing the seeds to have a natural period of cold stratification before sprouting in spring.<\/p>\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Heirloom plants sometimes naturalize in gardens and perform similarly to native plants. They grow seedlings with the same qualities, and they sometimes propagate themselves in your garden with self-sown seeds. Plants like forget-me-nots, lettuce, and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/products\/common-sorrel-seeds?_pos=1&amp;_sid=5fe297428&amp;_ss=r\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">sorrel<\/a> reseed readily and need little help from us gardeners. Let them spread into bare patches of soil, or dig them up and transplant them to new sites.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"Spring_or_Fall?\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Spring or Fall?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"900\" src=\"https:\/\/proxy-botanicalinterestscom.epicgardening.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Spring-or-Fall.jpg\" alt=\"A close-up shot of a person wearing a yellow sweater, red pants and yellow boots, in the process of digging a hole to plant flower bulbs in a well lit area outside\" class=\"wp-image-2016\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Spring-or-Fall.jpg 1600w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Spring-or-Fall-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Spring-or-Fall-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Spring-or-Fall-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Spring-or-Fall-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Spring-or-Fall-920x518.jpg 920w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Spring-or-Fall-414x233.jpg 414w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Some plants, like popular tulip and daffodil bulbs, perform better when planted in fall.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Certain crops <strong>appreciate starting in the fall,<\/strong> others like the spring, and some function well in either season! When to sow seeds outdoors depends on when you want to harvest or when you\u2019d prefer flowers to appear.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Heat-loving species prefer to start in winter, spring, or early summer. They thrive under summer sunlight and grow their best when days are warm. Cold-loving and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/frost-hardy-flowers\/\">frost-tolerant species<\/a> work well in spring or fall. Plants like broccoli, cauliflower, and true spinach need cool weather with consistent moisture; they\u2019ll thrive during the colder months but suffer if you grow them in summer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>First, decide when you\u2019d like to harvest your vegetables, fruits, or flowers. Then, determine <strong>when to start seeds outdoors.<\/strong> Growers with mild winter climates can grow cold-loving species throughout fall, winter, and early spring. You can consider yourself a mild climate gardener if you live in USDA hardiness zone 9 or above.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"Consider_Days_to_Maturity\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Consider Days to Maturity<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"900\" src=\"https:\/\/proxy-botanicalinterestscom.epicgardening.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Consider-Days-to-Maturity-1.jpg\" alt=\"A close-up shot of growing seedlings of a plant, from the soil ground in a well lit area outside.\" class=\"wp-image-2017\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Consider-Days-to-Maturity-1.jpg 1600w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Consider-Days-to-Maturity-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Consider-Days-to-Maturity-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Consider-Days-to-Maturity-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Consider-Days-to-Maturity-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Consider-Days-to-Maturity-1-920x518.jpg 920w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Consider-Days-to-Maturity-1-414x233.jpg 414w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Consider the &#8220;days to maturity&#8221; of crops to determine ideal planting times.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Alongside frost dates, \u201cdays to maturity\u201d is another rating that helps you decide when to start seeds outdoors. Some crops reach maturity quickly, like radishes. They\u2019re ready to harvest around 30 days after you plant them! Others, like peppers or watermelon, require many months to become adults.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Look to the packet your seeds come in to see their <strong>days to maturity rating.<\/strong> Then, you can adjust your seed starting dates to give your plants the time they need to grow into adults. If you live in cold climates with winter frost, you\u2019ll want your summer crops to grow into adults well before the first frost dates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"Watch_for_Frost_Dates\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Watch for Frost Dates<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"900\" src=\"https:\/\/proxy-botanicalinterestscom.epicgardening.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Watch-for-Frost-Dates.jpg\" alt=\"A close-up shot of growing seedlings of a plant, sprouting for a soil that is covered with a layer of mulch in a well lit area outside\" class=\"wp-image-2018\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Watch-for-Frost-Dates.jpg 1600w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Watch-for-Frost-Dates-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Watch-for-Frost-Dates-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Watch-for-Frost-Dates-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Watch-for-Frost-Dates-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Watch-for-Frost-Dates-920x518.jpg 920w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Watch-for-Frost-Dates-414x233.jpg 414w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Find your average frost dates before planting.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Average frost dates are the best indicators of when to sow seeds outdoors. The chart at the beginning of this article provides information on when to plant flowers, vegetables, and herbs. First, find your average frost dates, then look at the chart to see how long before or after the frost dates you should start seedlings.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Cool weather-loving species start best a month or two before the<strong> last average frosty days.<\/strong> Warm weather-loving plants start best outdoors one to four weeks after the last frost date. For fall plantings, sow frost-tolerant flowers and crops three to four months before the first frost date in autumn.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Gardeners with garden beds in greenhouses or cold frames can cheat a bit! You\u2019ll want to adjust your starting dates one to three weeks earlier. The protective structures warm the air inside to be hotter than the air outside. This creates the ideal conditions for seed starting in late winter or early spring while not much else is growing.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"How_to_Start_Seeds_Outdoors\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to Start Seeds Outdoors<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Now that we know <strong>when to plant seeds outside,<\/strong> let\u2019s learn how to do it! We\u2019ll use materials you might have lying about your yard and some tools that most growers should have in their arsenal. Follow these simple steps from start to finish so you\u2019ll have dozens of seedlings throughout your garden!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"Step_1:_Gather_Materials\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 1: Gather Materials<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"900\" src=\"https:\/\/proxy-botanicalinterestscom.epicgardening.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Gather-Materials-1.jpg\" alt=\"An overhead shot of several tools, equipment, bulbs and plants placed on soil ground in a well lit area outside.\" class=\"wp-image-2019\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Gather-Materials-1.jpg 1600w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Gather-Materials-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Gather-Materials-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Gather-Materials-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Gather-Materials-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Gather-Materials-1-920x518.jpg 920w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Gather-Materials-1-414x233.jpg 414w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Sowing outside requires less material and maintenance.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Before you begin, you\u2019ll want to gather your tools and materials in one place. This makes for easy sowing without interruptions. Here are the things you\u2019ll need to begin:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Potting soil, compost, or leaf mold<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rake<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hand trowel<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Seeds of your choice<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hose nozzle or watering can<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/seed-starting-outdoors\/\">Outdoor sowing<\/a> requires<strong> less materials and maintenance<\/strong> than indoor sowing. It\u2019s not necessarily easier, although it is nice that you can conserve your supplies when planting outdoors. You\u2019ll need a site with bare soil, like a raised or in-ground bed, container, or border.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A rake allows you to make the soil\u2019s surface even, while a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/products\/hand-trowel\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">hand trowel<\/a> makes for easy digging. After planting, you\u2019ll water the site with a hose or watering can. Gardeners in areas like the Pacific Northwest often get away with letting natural rainfall water their seedlings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"Step_2:_Prepare_the_Site\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 2: Prepare the Site<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"900\" src=\"https:\/\/proxy-botanicalinterestscom.epicgardening.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Prepare-the-Site.jpg\" alt=\"A shot of a wheelbarrow with several debris from flowers and other plants, placed alongside a garden bed, in a well lit area outside.\" class=\"wp-image-2020\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Prepare-the-Site.jpg 1600w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Prepare-the-Site-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Prepare-the-Site-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Prepare-the-Site-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Prepare-the-Site-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Prepare-the-Site-920x518.jpg 920w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Prepare-the-Site-414x233.jpg 414w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Clear the site of any debris like overgrown weeds.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Some sites may have dozens of overgrown weeds, while others have nutrient-poor soil with a weak structure. <strong>Prepare the site <\/strong>first so that the seeds germinate successfully. Start by removing any weeds, spent annuals, and debris.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Soils low in nutrients benefit from amendments like compost, leaf mold, or packaged organic mixes from the store. Place a layer one to three inches thick on top of the soil and rake it in evenly. The amendments decompose over time, boosting the dirt\u2019s nutrient levels and structural integrity. They house growing seedlings with loose particles that are good for root growth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If using containers or <a href=\"https:\/\/shop.epicgardening.com\/collections\/birdies-original\">raised beds<\/a>, first ensure they\u2019re full of dirt that\u2019s nutrient-rich. Old soil in containers compacts over time, creating less-than-ideal conditions for root growth. Fix it by <strong>adding drainage materials<\/strong> like perlite and vermiculite, and add more organic matter like compost or leaf mold to boost nutrient levels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"Step_3:_Condition_the_Seeds\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 3: Condition the Seeds<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"900\" src=\"https:\/\/proxy-botanicalinterestscom.epicgardening.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Shutterstock_1347988688.jpg\" alt=\"A palm facing up holds a few nasturtium seeds with thick outer coatings. \" class=\"wp-image-2170\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Shutterstock_1347988688.jpg 1600w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Shutterstock_1347988688-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Shutterstock_1347988688-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Shutterstock_1347988688-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Shutterstock_1347988688-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Shutterstock_1347988688-920x518.jpg 920w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Shutterstock_1347988688-414x233.jpg 414w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Seeds with a thick outer coating, like nasturtiums, may benefit from scarification. <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Seeds often require conditioning before you plant them. Large seeds with hard coatings benefit from scarification, while cold hardy seeds often need cold stratification. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/stratification-and-scarification\/\">Treat them before planting<\/a>, or use the seasons to meet their needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Scarification is a process where you file away or prick a piece of a seed\u2019s hard outer coating so it <strong>germinates quicker.<\/strong> Peas, beans, and nasturtiums form thick outer seed coverings to improve survivability. Use a nail file to sand away a piece of the coating.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Cold stratification is a different process where seeds need a certain amount of cold days to germinate. Native plants and cold-loving species often require this treatment. Sow the seeds so they receive this cold period outdoors or cheat with your refrigerator. Put the seeds in a bag with sawdust and a little moisture, then keep the bag in the fridge for as long as the cold stratification period requires.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"Step_4:_Plant_Seeds\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 4: Plant Seeds<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"900\" src=\"https:\/\/proxy-botanicalinterestscom.epicgardening.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Plant-Seeds.jpg\" alt=\"A shot of a person wearing light blue plaid shirt, blue jeans and blue-green boots, in the process of inspecting and sowing germs in soil outside\" class=\"wp-image-2022\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Plant-Seeds.jpg 1600w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Plant-Seeds-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Plant-Seeds-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Plant-Seeds-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Plant-Seeds-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Plant-Seeds-920x518.jpg 920w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Plant-Seeds-414x233.jpg 414w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Once all the prep work is done, sowing will become an easy process.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Finally, we get to plant seeds! Sowing becomes an easy process after all the preparation work. To start, dig trenches or furrows as <strong>deep as your seedlings need;<\/strong> look to their packets for proper digging depths. A <a href=\"https:\/\/extension.unh.edu\/resource\/starting-plants-seed-fact-sheet\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">general rule of thumb<\/a> is to plant small seeds near the surface and larger ones further down.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Place the seeds with proper spacing in between each one, then cover them up with the soil or compost from nearby. Try not to press the dirt down too much, as it\u2019s more difficult for sprouts to pop up through compacted soil.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some species benefit from surface sowing, where you rake their tiny seeds into the surface of the soil. Start by raking an even portion of the dirt, then <strong>broadcast the seeds evenly <\/strong>throughout the site. Carrots, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/products\/german-chamomile-seeds?_pos=1&amp;_sid=7d6bfc07c&amp;_ss=r\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">chamomile<\/a>, and lettuce appreciate surface sowings.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"Step_5:_Maintain_Consistent_Moisture\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 5: Maintain Consistent Moisture<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"900\" src=\"https:\/\/proxy-botanicalinterestscom.epicgardening.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Maintain-Consistent-Moisture.jpg\" alt=\"A close-up shot of growing sprouts of plants on top of moist soil in a well lit area outside\" class=\"wp-image-2023\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Maintain-Consistent-Moisture.jpg 1600w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Maintain-Consistent-Moisture-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Maintain-Consistent-Moisture-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Maintain-Consistent-Moisture-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Maintain-Consistent-Moisture-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Maintain-Consistent-Moisture-920x518.jpg 920w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Maintain-Consistent-Moisture-414x233.jpg 414w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Near-constant moisture levels are needed for successful sprouting.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Seedlings need near-constant moisture levels to succeed. They\u2019re sensitive when small\u2014their tiny root systems are prone to drying out. Water them consistently so they grow well from the moment they sprout. If your garden is wet from natural rainfall, avoid watering your seedlings until the dirt dries on top.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You want your sensitive seedlings to have <strong>moist, not soggy, soil.<\/strong> You\u2019ll know it\u2019s perfectly moist when it feels like a wrung-out sponge. If rain is frequent while you\u2019re sowing, place a row cover or umbrella above the baby plants so they avoid soggy conditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Summer seed starting is difficult outdoors as warm temperatures and ample sunlight encourage dry dirt. Use a sprinkler on a timer to ensure they stay moist or use a drip irrigation system to avoid the hassle of daily watering with a hose.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"Step_6:_Thin_Overcrowded_Seedlings\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 6: Thin Overcrowded Seedlings<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"900\" src=\"https:\/\/proxy-botanicalinterestscom.epicgardening.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Shutterstock_1776020012.jpg\" alt=\"gardener thins lettuce seedlings.\n\" class=\"wp-image-2171\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Shutterstock_1776020012.jpg 1600w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Shutterstock_1776020012-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Shutterstock_1776020012-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Shutterstock_1776020012-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Shutterstock_1776020012-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Shutterstock_1776020012-920x518.jpg 920w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Shutterstock_1776020012-414x233.jpg 414w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Thin seedlings to provide enough room for the strongest to grow.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Crops like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/collections\/beets\">beets<\/a> have multiple seeds in a fruit-like structure. When you plant a single \u201cseed\u201d you\u2019re planting three or four! You\u2019ll see multiple seedlings pop up in the same location. Simply thin the extra seedlings and<strong> let one plant thrive<\/strong> in the open space. Remove the weakest, shortest seedlings, and let the strongest and tallest ones remain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Beets, lettuce, and other leafy greens grow edible sprouts! Use them like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/microgreens-and-baby-greens-sow-and-grow-guide\/\">microgreens<\/a> in salads, on charcuterie boards, or inside sandwiches. Some flowers, like sunflowers, form deliciously nutty microgreens while young and tender.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"Step_7:_Support_Leaning_Plants\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 7: Support Leaning Plants<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"900\" src=\"https:\/\/proxy-botanicalinterestscom.epicgardening.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Support-Leaning-Plants.jpg\" alt=\"A close-up shot of a person wearing blue jeans and orange garden gloves, in the process of ting a growing plant to a green plastic stake in a well lit area outside.\" class=\"wp-image-2025\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Support-Leaning-Plants.jpg 1600w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Support-Leaning-Plants-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Support-Leaning-Plants-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Support-Leaning-Plants-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Support-Leaning-Plants-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Support-Leaning-Plants-920x518.jpg 920w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Support-Leaning-Plants-414x233.jpg 414w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Plants will need support while they grow tall.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Peas, beans, and other twining spreaders like squash <strong>need support while they grow<\/strong> tall! Give them something to lean on while they\u2019re young and they\u2019ll morph into hardy, strong, and tough adults. What type of cage or trellis to use depends on the plants you\u2019re growing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Squash, cucumbers, melons, and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/products\/runner-scarlet-emperor-pole-bean-seeds?_pos=1&amp;_sid=3c3a5a71e&amp;_ss=r\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">climbing beans<\/a> need strong supports made of metal, PVC, or wood. They have fruits that weigh heavy on the vines, and strong supports ensure they ripen fully before falling to the ground. Cow panels are an easy material to use for this purpose, as they\u2019re already strong and you can stick them in raised or in-ground beds.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Thin twining species like flowering peas, bush beans, and trailing nasturtiums don\u2019t need much support. Let them attach themselves to <strong>a bamboo stake, or tie them up<\/strong> on other woody plants nearby. Crops like tomatoes, bell peppers, and eggplants appreciate <a href=\"https:\/\/shop.epicgardening.com\/collections\/plant-protectors-supports\/products\/tomato-cage\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">tomato cages<\/a> for support. The structures make harvesting simple by allowing easy access to every part of the plant.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"Step_8:_Successive_Sowings\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 8: Successive Sowings<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"900\" src=\"https:\/\/proxy-botanicalinterestscom.epicgardening.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Successive-Sowings.jpg\" alt=\"A close-up and focused shot of a person wearing a black sweatshirt, holding a packet of germs and in the process of sowing on a dug hole in a raised bed in a well lit area outside\" class=\"wp-image-2026\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Successive-Sowings.jpg 1600w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Successive-Sowings-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Successive-Sowings-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Successive-Sowings-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Successive-Sowings-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Successive-Sowings-920x518.jpg 920w, https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Successive-Sowings-414x233.jpg 414w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Successive sowings can ensure a near-constant supply of crops.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>While your seedlings grow it\u2019s time to start thinking about planting more! Quick growers like radishes are ready for harvesting a month after they germinate, meaning you\u2019ll quickly run out of fresh veggies from your garden. Make <a href=\"https:\/\/www.botanicalinterests.com\/community\/blog\/successive-sowing-keep-it-coming\/\">successive sowings<\/a> to have a near-constant supply of leafy greens, tender roots, and delicious fruits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Most growers <strong>sow seeds every two weeks<\/strong> to grow the food or flowers they need. This is best for annual herbs, flowers, and quick-growing vegetables. Some other good plants to succession sow are cilantro, spinach, and bok choy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Repeat this process for each sowing. It works for fall, spring, and midsummer plantings. Combine outdoor sowing with indoor growing and you\u2019ll have more fruits, veggies, and flowers than you can process!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Outdoor seed sowing is a rewarding experience. You plant seeds, watch them sprout, and grow more amazed each day as they morph into giant plants. Know when and how to sow outdoors and you\u2019ll have plants growing in every nook and cranny of your garden.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":146077,"featured_media":2028,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[9],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-2014","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-sowing-guides"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v26.7 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>How and When to Start Seeds Outdoors<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Find out when and how to start your seeds outdoors for a healthy and thriving garden this year!\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" 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