Garden season is just getting started, but the warm temperatures persist throughout Georgia! In late January and early February, I tried to get a head start on what I predict to be a warm Spring and started the longer-growing cold crops such as broccoli, cauliflower, collards, kale, and Brussels sprouts inside. I just moved those seedlings out into the garden, and they are settling in nicely after hardening off in the mild temperature fluctuations last week.
In my garden, especially with the continued warm temperatures, we have entered the direct sow period of the year. Anything I did not start inside can now be directly sown into the garden. So what am I directly sowing this month? March is a good month to start peas, carrots, turnips, beets, radish, spinach, chard, and lettuce. I might even squeeze in a zucchini or yellow squash for an early harvest before the squash vine borers return in early Summer.
Are you starting seeds for your garden or seeding your lawn? A vital part of seed starting in any capacity is moisture. Before starting my seeds in seed starting trays or containers, I ensure my soil starting material is moist. Most seed starting mixes become hydrophobic and will not retain water via traditional bottom and top watering methods. The key is a mist that penetrates the soil's barrier. I use a spray bottle to achieve the perfect moisture balance. Once my soil is moist, I can plant my seeds and then water again using traditional top and bottom watering methods. Ensure your soil does not dry out by checking on your seedlings regularly, or create a mini greenhouse with a tray cover or plastic bag.
Similar rules apply to seeding your lawn; your lawn will need to be moist for your grass seed to germinate. It is recommended to water your lawn before and after applying your seed, keeping the ground moist but not waterlogged. If your soil is too wet, your seeds might migrate to unwanted areas, or worse, suffocate and not germinate. To prevent drowning your seeds, it's recommended to water in brief 5-10 minute increments, 2-3 times a day. To achieve the best moisture balance in the yard, it's worth exploring irrigation methods. Cheap Sprinklers offer a variety of irrigation options for all your moisture needs. Check out our irrigation options and get your garden started today!
