The 2023 Seed Lending Library opened on March 1, and is stocked with many different varieties of seeds for herbs, vegetables and flowers designed to attract bees and pollinators? If you haven’t already come to the library to get some free seeds, hurry in while supplies last. Get a head start on your garden!
- How do I get my seeds?
- Visit the seed library area by the Children’s Room, complete a seed request form and bring your selection to the Customer Service Desk to receive your seeds. (5 seed packets per library visit).
- What seeds should I start with?
- Many common vegetables and flowers can be started indoors such as tomatoes, peppers, eggplant and basil are just a few. Beans and peas are better for direct sowing in the garden, but it doesn’t hurt to try a few indoors in case there is a late frost. Check the back of your seed packets for instructions when to sow.
- What do I plant the seeds in?
- Start with a seed starting mix made for seed starting, and use shallow containers or seed starting trays. Whichever container you choose, may sure there are drainage holes on the bottom.
- Planting the seeds:
- Moisten the potting soil before planting the seeds. Planting depths vary, so check the individual seed packet for instructions. Start by making a small dent or hole the depth suggested on the seed packet, and carefully drop one or two seeds in the hole and cover the seed (s) with additional potting soil. Use a misting bottle or gently water.
- Water, Light & Heat
- As plants grow, allow the soil to dry slightly between watering. Use a misting bottle or sprinkling can with a fine shower. Bright light is the key for strong and healthy plants, using a grow light or windowsill. About 14-16 hours of light per day is ideal. Providing a heat source with a heat mat below the containers is a good way to increase germination. When using Grow Lights, raise the light fixture within 4 inches of the top as the seedlings grow. If you place plants on a windowsill, rotate seeds daily since they will grow towards the light.
- Hardening Off:
- This is the process of acclimating young plants to outdoor growing conditions. First move the seedlings to a bright, but shady spot outside that is protected from the wind. After a few days, slowly expose them to direct sunlight and wind, but bring them in at night. After a week, the plants will be able to tolerate the elements.
- Transplanting Seedlings:
- It may be necessary to transplant seedlings still growing inside when there are multiple seeds sown in the same container, plants are too large for their small container, or if they are root-bound. Gently replant the seedlings in an individual container that is twice as big and use a high-quality potting soil. Make sure that your seedling is about 2-3 inches high before transplanting. It is recommended, you transplant a seedling after its two "true leaves" first come out. True leaves are the leaves that grow after the initial seed's cotyledon (first leaves that emerge from a seed). Only fertilize young seedlings as needed, and use a liquid organic fertilizer diluted to half-strength.
For more tips and tricks for planting or seed saving, check out our online Seed Library Resource.
Don’t forget to send the library your garden experiences and pictures, and come to the library and browse our collection about seeds saving, gardening and more!