Phomopsis Blight

A soil block is a cube of lightly compressed soil and nutrients that will grow one seedling. When the plant is ready to be transplanted, the entire block is planted into the soil. No root mangling will reduce transplant shock. When I first began gardening, I purchased transplants from a local nursery and had a difficult time getting the seedlings out of their individual cells. Often times the plants were root bound and suffered from transplant shock because of my mangling. Once I decided to gro

As we continue to live through social distancing guidelines in the wake of COVID-19, one of my challenges is not being able to get my seedlings planted in the ground. I started seedlings in Florida with a plan to transplant them into my garden in New Jersey. Due to COVID-19, it will be at least another 3-4 weeks until I am able to travel back home. What to do? Potting-up (transplanting) seedlings is the answer. Transplanting seedlings into larger containers is a normal

I love starting my garden plants from seeds. By ordering seeds and starting seedlings my self, I have hundreds of options. Instead of limiting myself to the 8-10 varieties of tomato plants that are offered in stores, I can grow whatever kind of tomatoes or other veggies I prefer. However, one problem with starting your own seeds is that, unless you have a greenhouse or cold frame, your seedlings can grow too tall and leggy indoors. They really need more sunlight than a windowsill can provide.

Many types of seeds are easy to grow, but some may require specific temperature, light, or darkness. Detailed germination information is included on our seed packets, and carefully following these instructions is recommended. If no light requirements are stated, light does not play an important role in germination. Remember to plan ahead. It takes 2½ to 4 months for most annuals to bloom from seed. Seedlings are ready to set out in about 8 to 10 weeks. It’s a good idea to keep