What are the pros of growing perennials from seed?
The pros of growing perennials from seed include stretching your gardening budget as seeds can offer multiple plants for the cost of a seed pack, which is often much cheaper than buying individual plants. Additionally, planting small seedlings is easier than digging holes for larger plants, and nurturing a plant from seed to bloom provides a rewarding experience for a gardener.
Does it require a lot of time to grow perennials from seed?
Yes, growing perennials from seed does require some time and patience. Perennials typically take time to establish a healthy, strong root system in the first year and may not produce blooms or reach their full potential until the second year or later.
What are some examples of perennials that can be grown from seed?
Some examples of perennials that can be easily grown from seed include coneflowers (Echinacea purpurea, Green Twister, and White Swan), Munstead English lavender, blue glow Globe thistle, ladies' mantle, Pink Muhly Grass, noble spirit dwarf goat's beard, pink turtle head, and Virginia.
When starting perennials from seed, what conditions do they need to be successful?
When starting perennials from seed, it's essential to make sure the plant variety is hardy to your growing zone, provide them with proper growing conditions, and plant them in a garden location with the type of soil and light conditions suitable for the plant to thrive and establish.
Can you start perennials from seed indoors?
Yes, you can start perennials from seed indoors using an indoor seed starting setup, which would require a seed tray, a heat mat, a grow light, or a sunny south-facing window. Alternatively, you can use the winter sowing method, which involves growing seeds outdoors in containers like milk jugs to let nature aid the germination process.
What is the winter sowing method for planting seeds?
The winter sowing method involves using clear containers, such as water jugs or milk containers, with drainage holes. You fill the container with moist potting mix, sow your seeds, label the containers, and then place them outdoors to let sun and rain naturally assist with seed germination.
How long does it typically take for perennials grown from seed to bloom?
Typically, perennials grown from seed will start producing blooms in their second year, as the first year is focused on establishing a strong, healthy root system. The saying to remember is "the first year they sleep, the second year they creep, and then the third year they leap," referring to the gradual growth and maturation of perennials.
