Growing plants from seed takes a bit more time and patience, but is well worth the efforts. This page contains tips and advice about growing from seed.
Keeping Seedlings From DyingThis is a page about keeping seedlings from dying. Young tender seedlings need special care.
8 Signs Your Seedlings Are In TroubleGrowing garden plants and flowers from seed is often a less expensive alternative to buying full grown or starter plants. This method does require a level of patience and attentiveness to your young sprouts. This is a page about 8 signs your seedlings are in trouble.
Using Dryer Lint for Making Seed BallsUse the lint from your dryer in your garden, for planting seeds in the spring. This is a page about using dryer lint for making seed balls.
Growing Hydrangea from Seed?This page is about growing hydrangea from seed. These beautiful shrubs can be started from seed.
Collecting Thunbergia SeedsThis page is about collecting thunbergia seeds. Knowing how to save your own seeds can save you money on flowers in your garden.
Growing Geraniums From SeedsThis is a page about growing geraniums from seeds. Although many gardeners buy geraniums as small starts or blooming plants they can be grown from seed.
File Flower Seeds to Help SproutingSome seeds such as nasturtium have a hard outer seed coating that can slow down germination. For these and similar seeds you can speed up sprouting by nicking the seed coat and filing lightly until you can see the lighter inner seed coat. Soak overnight and plant immediately.
Birds Eating Sunflower Seeds Before They Sprout?Twice now I planted sunflower seeds and twice the birds have eaten the seeds before they've had a chance to sprout. I don't mind if they eat the sunflowers once they've had a chance to grow and bloom, but it would be nice if they had a chance to grow and bloom first. Any suggestions for next year?
Starting Tulip Trees from Seed?This is a page about starting tulip trees from seed. Many gardeners like to start their new plants from seeds they have collected. You can even propagate some trees this way.
Growing Sunflowers from SeedlingsIn many areas sunflower seeds can be sown directly in the garden in the spring To get a jump start gardeners often choose to start their flower seeds indoors and then transplant them outside. Make sure you have an area with good light when growing seedlings indoors. This is a page about growing sunflowers from seedlings.
Growing an Avocado from a PitThis page is about growing an avocado from seed. A fun and rewarding indoor project can be starting an avocado pit.
Saving Zinnia SeedsThis is a page about saving zinnia seeds. You can grow zinnias year after year by saving the seeds from this year's flowers for planting next season.
Saving Petunia Seeds?This is a page about saving petunia seeds. Collecting the dry flowers from your petunia plant allows you to save the seeds for planting next spring.
Can I Plant Wisteria Pods?You can just plant the seeds that are in the pods. Nick the seeds slightly and soak them overnight before planting them. This is a page about planting wisteria pods.
Growing Acorn Squash from Supermarket Squash?While you can certainly plant the seeds from your supermarket produce, don't be surprised if the fruit or veggies are not the same as the parent produce. This is a page about growing acorn squash from supermarket squash.
Growing Ben Franklin Trees from Seeds?I have a Ben Franklin tree which had several seed pods I just removed. The seeds are hard. What is the best way to try to grow my new trees?
Saving Seed from Hybrid PlantsThis is a page about saving seed from hybrid plants. While you can typically grow new plants from hybrid seeds they will not be the same as the parent. You may be surprised with a new better tasting fruit or veggie or a lovely flower.
Find Seeds in Your Spice CabinetI used to purchase packages of dill seeds. I found out that the dill seed in my spice cabinet will sprout just as well as the commercial seeds. This will work with fennel, coriander, mustard and other spices.
Used Tea Bag to Sprout SeedsSave your old used tea bags as a seed starter. The tea will compost as the seedling grows, feeding it as well as marking the location.
Use a Pipe for Planting SeedsRather than bending over to plant seeds in a long garden row, consider a pipe planter. Two versions are offered on this page with the new and improved one using a length of PVC pipe and a funnel.
Growing Pansies From SeedYou can save money by growing pansies from seed. They will need a light loamy soil, high in organic matter, that is kept moist, in order to germinate. This is a page about growing pansies from seed.
Use a K-Cup as a Seed StarterEven a small K cup can be reused. Try using it to start veggie or flower seeds. This might be a good project for your children, as well. This is a page about using a K cup as a seed starter.
Starting Seeds in the SnowSnow on the ground doesn't need to hinder your getting an early start on planting your spring seeds. Grab some gallon milk jugs and follow the steps in this page for starting seeds in the snow.
Finding Heirloom SeedsGrow the same plants that your grandparents may have grown. Many seed companies and seed exchanges now have a variety of heirloom seeds available. This is a page about finding heirloom seeds.
Creating a Greenhouse in a Basement?It is possible to create a small greenhouse in the basement for starting your garden seeds. Get the right lighting, planting medium, and then care for your seedlings. This is a page about creating a greenhouse in the basement.
Faster Seed GerminationTo ensure your seeds will grow, you could expedite seed germination by placing your seeds on a piece of paper towel. Write the type of seeds on the paper towel and lightly dampen the seed area with some water. Place your seeds in a Ziploc bag. In a couple days, check up on your seeds.
Growing Calla Lilies from PodsThe pods that develop as your calla lily blooms fade are in fact seed pods. Callas multiply by reseeding and new bulb development. This is a page about growing calla lilies from pods.
Recycled Cardboard for Starting SeedsToilet paper rolls and paper take out food drink trays make excellent containers for starting your seeds. This page explains using recycled cardboard for starting seeds.
Reuse Plastic Containers for SeedlingsMany plastic containers work quite well for starting your seeds prior to spring planting. This is a page about reuse plastic containers for seedlings.
Surfing for SeedsOnline seed exchanges can be a perfect way to get seeds for plants you would like while sharing your own abundance. This is a page about surfing for seeds.
Testing Seeds for ViabilitySome gardeners save seeds from year to year and for years at a time. Prior to planting season it is a good idea to do a bit of testing to check their viability. This is a page about testing seeds for viability.
Egg Carton GardeningThe cavities in egg crates are just the right size for starting many types of seeds. An added advantage to the paper style is that it can be cut apart and the seedling planted in the soil container and all. This is a page about egg carton gardening.
4 Steps to Figuring Out When to Start Seeds IndoorsThis is a page about determining when to start seeds indoors. Knowing your hardiness zone, frost dates, and the germination time line for your chosen seeds is important to deciding when to start seeds indoors.
Starting Seeds Under Fluorescent LightsThis is a page about starting seeds under fluorescent lights. When starting seeds indoors, you don't need to buy expensive grow lights, fluorescent lights will do the trick.
Sprouting SeedsThis is a page about sprouting seeds. You can often save money and grow plants not readily available at a nursery or big box store, by sprouting your own seeds.
Start Seeds Outdoors With Winter SowingThis is a page about start seeds outdoors with winter sowing. Using this method you can skip the grow light regime of seed starting. Plant seeds in plastic containers and see the results.
Making a CD Case Plant DisplayThis is a page about making a CD case plant display. Plant some seeds inside a clear CD case to create a display showing seed germination.This is a great kid project.
Saving Cucumber SeedsThis is a page about saving cucumber seeds. You can save money on garden seeds by collecting them from this year's crop for use next year.
Saving Tomato SeedsThis is a page about saving tomato seeds. An economical way to grow vegetables next season, especially if you are OK if the second season's produce does not necessarily taste the same, is to save some seeds.
Recycled Drink Bottle for Watering SeedsThis is a page about recycled drink bottle for watering seeds. Using a small plastic drink or water bottle you can make a convenient device for watering seeds.
Pre-treating Seeds to Speed GerminationThis is a page about pre-treating seeds to speed germination. Some seeds need special treatment before they will germinate.
Why Seeds Fail To GerminateThis is a page about why seeds fail to germinate. There can be a number of reasons that seeds don't germinate.
Tips for Germinating SeedsThis is a page about tips for germinating seeds. It is not only less expensive to start your garden from seed, but often you can plant a wider variety of veggies and flowers.
Using a Seed Swap or ExchangeThere are many seed sharing organizations online. Having information and a photo of the plants your seeds produce will help you in your seed swapping.
Problems Starting SeedsThis page is about problems starting seeds. Having good soil mix and a proper container helps get your seeds off to a good start.
Saving Money on SeedsThis page is about saving money on seeds. End of the season and discount stores seed packs, as well as, seed exchanges can reduce the cost of planting your flower and vegetable gardens.
Preserving Seeds From Buttercup SquashThis is a page about preserving seeds from buttercup squash. These sweet, nutty winter squash have a central seed cavity filled with seeds you can save, dry, and plant for next season.
Harvesting Marigold Seeds?This is a page about harvesting marigold seeds. You can easily grow marigolds next season from the harvested seeds.
Harvesting Sunflower Seeds?This is a page about harvesting sunflower seeds. Harvesting sunflower seeds for snacks and cooking, bird feeders, or next season's garden is quite easy.
Finding Free Flower SeedsThis is a page about finding free flower seeds. You can cut the costs of planting your garden if you locate a source for free flower seeds.
Planting Small SeedsThis page is about planting small seeds. It can be a challenge to keep track of and plant the proper amount of tiny seeds.
Starting SeedlingsThis is a page about starting seedlings. Give your seedlings a head start by planting early. Start indoors if you garden in colder climates.
Buying SeedsThis page is about buying seeds. Getting the right seeds for your location will help you have success with your gardening.
Understanding Seed Packet InstructionsThis is a page about understanding seed packet instructions. You can save money by growing plants from seeds, but you may not be familiar with all of the terms commonly used on seed packets.
Sowing Seeds Tips and TricksThis is a page containing sowing seeds tips and tricks. Growing plants from seed is relatively easy, but there are some tips that can make this method easier and more successful.
Starting Seeds IndoorsThis is a page about starting seeds indoors. Often it is recommended that certain seeds be started indoors in order to get a jump start on the growing season.
Starting Tomato SeedsThis page is about starting tomato seeds. Tomatoes are easy to grow and a delicious addition to any home garden or patio container.
Collecting Seeds from Your FlowersThis is a page about collecting seeds from your flowers. If you have decided to begin collecting seeds from your flowers for next season, there are a few things to keep in mind.
Tips for Saving SeedsThis page contains tips for saving seeds. There is a little more to saving seeds than just collecting them.
Drying and Storing SeedsThis is a page about drying and storing seeds. Collecting seeds from your garden is the first step in having seeds to use for your next planting.
Starting a Trumpet Vine From Seed PodsThis is a page about starting a trumpet vine from seed pods. Starting new plants, such as the trumpet vine, from seeds is cheaper than buying a plant from the nursery.
Saving Vegetable SeedsThis is a page about saving vegetable seeds. Saving vegetable seeds is often about timing.
Direct Sowing SeedsThis is a page about direct sowing seeds. Many flowers and vegetables grow quite well by sowing the seeds directly in the ground in your garden.
Growing Vegetables from SeedsThis is a page about growing vegetables from seeds. Growing vegetables from seed can save you money and offer a wider choice of plant varieties.
Winter Sowing SeedsThis is a page about winter sowing seeds. Invite nature into your gardening experience by giving winter sowing a try.
Saving Seeds for Next Planting Season?A friend just gave me a bag full of cock's comb seeds. I live in Tennessee and it's already cold here. I found out that the time to sow cock's comb seeds is in early summer. Will my seeds keep that long?
Homemade Seed TapesThis is a page about making homemade seed tapes. Seeds can be very small and can shift around during planting. Using a seed tape can help create straight even rows but they can be very expensive to purchase.
Planting Armeria Maritima Seeds?I have some Armeria Maritima seeds, but the instructions are in Chinese. Can you please tell me how to grow these seeds and when?
Planting Honeyball Bush Seeds?I just received about 50 honeyball bush seeds in the mail. When and how do I plant the seeds? I know that they should be planted in a sunny location. Do I plant all of the seeds in a narrow trench or do I plant all of the seeds in a small hole?
Where Can I Get Free Wisteria Seed Pods?This isn't really a question, it is more of a request to the person who has the wisteria seedpods. I would love to have some, if possible. Thank you!
Where Can I Find the Germination Time for Garden Vegetable Seeds?How long do corn, peas, radish, clover, and barley take to germinate?
Can I Get Seeds from a Clematis Vine?How can I get seeds from a clematis vine?
Where Can I Get Brugmansia (Angel's Trumpet) Seeds?I am looking for brugmansia seeds?
Sending Seeds Through the Mail?I always have lots of seeds to give away that I have harvested from my own organic vegetable garden. Can I send them to America from here, does anyone know the quarantine regulations?
Why Are Some Seeds Only Planted When Weather Warms Up?Why do I have to wait until the weather is warmer to sow seeds? I know I can plant some in the fall before it is too cold, but why can't I start to plant them now? The seeds I plant in the late summer or fall are just as cold as can be lying in the ground now.
How Do I Grow Coleus Indoors From Seed?I want to grow coleus from seed indoors. I would love some good simple tips. Thanks.
Can I Use Florescent Lights to Start Seeds?Will a florescent lightbulb put off enough light to start seeds indoors versus the expensive grow lights?
Planting Zoysia Grass Seed?Can I plant zoysia grass seed?
Freezing Hummingbird Vine Pods for Spring Planting?I read your comment about vine pods. I have a hummingbird vine. It's name is "campsis Radicans. My vine has been in the ground about 10 years and we would like to start some seeds from our
Wisteria Bloomed But Did Not Make Seed Pods?My two wisteria, white and blue, bloomed well for the first time this spring, but produced no seed pods. Why is that?
Tool to Help Space Seeds When Planting?I am a new gardener. I was putting in my seeds and I remembered hearing that there was a tool thing that would drop seeds at the necessary interval. Where can I find this thing? I live in Canada,
Starting a Tree from Seed?How do you start a tree from a seed?
Can I Grow Passion Flower Vines from Seed?I got some passion flower pods and broke them open, there are seeds inside. Can I plant these and get passion flower vines to grow?
How Do You Get Free Seed Samples?Where can I get free seed samples?
Link: Free Seeds At Wintersown.orgGet free seeds and learn how to sow seeds in the winter!
Starting a Magnolia from Seed?How do you start a seed after just picking it off a tree? It is a large leaf Magnolia tree.
Do Asiatic Lilies Develop Seeds?Do Asiatic lilies get seeds? Are the seeds contained in the "bulb" that remains after the flower is done blooming?
Finding Hummingbird Vine Seeds?Where can I find hummingbird vine seeds?
Plastic Cups for Seed StartsSeveral weeks ago I planted a variety of vegetable seeds for my garden. I now have several trays of seedlings that need to move to a bigger pot but it is too early to put them in the garden.
Growing Acai Seeds?I just got some Acai seeds and can't find anything on the internet about how to grow them. Does anyone in the Thriftyfun community have experience growing this fruit? I live in Oregon, which has a hardiness zone of 8-9.
Freebie: Tomato SeedsGet a free pack of tomato seeds when you enter info located on the bottom of any Campbell's Soup can. Your request will also help Campbell's donate seeds to communities and schools through the National FFA organization. Expires 6/21/09.
Growing Seeds in Perlite?I have already started seeds in little jiffy pellets. My question is about starting seeds and rooting cut offs in Perlite. I am re-using plastic tubs that fresh spinach comes in at the supermarkets. How much Perlite should I put into the bottom?
Can I Still Start Seeds?We live in Baltimore City, MD. Our hardiness zone is 7. Would you kindly let me know if it is too late to plant seeds? Can I start seeds in peat pots? I put it off, and I'm worried it's too late for this year.
Bugs Inside Mimosa Seed Pods?I thought I was so lucky when a neighbor let me have as many seed pods as I wanted from their Mimosa tree. Next thing I know, while I'm shelling them, I see 90% have a little hole in them from some kind of bug.
Protecting Plants as They Start to Grow?What is the best stuff to make or buy so that my seeds don't get fungus or get tamped down and croak when they start to grow? This would be for wisteria, crape myrtles, apples and some ornamental grass. Thanks, I love this site.
What Is Wintering Seeds?I am just a beginning gardener. What does wintering seeds mean? Thanks.
Getting Seeds From Zinnias?In hoping to get seeds from faded Zinnias. I am faced with either the spent petals (which fit into the flower-head and look like the heads of spears) or a much smaller seed(?) which comes out of the flower head when the flower head looks like a carefully trimmed buzz cut. Which is the preferred product?
Leftover Perennial Seeds?If I have perennial seeds left over from purchasing last Spring. Can I plant them now for a Spring garden? What is the best thing to do with these seeds?
Looking For Hawaiian Woodrose Seeds?I am looking for Hawaiian baby Woodrose seeds/pods. Can anyone help me please?
Recommendations For Seed Companies?I am looking for recommendations on what catalogs or companies are good to buy seeds from.
How Do You Start Grapefruit Seeds?Do you start grapefruit seeds in water or in soil?
Identifying Male And Female Avocado?How do you know if you have a male or female avacoda seed to grow?
Saving Tomato SeedsHere is another way to save tomato seeds for next season.
Growing Pansies From SeedI have saved lots of pansy seed from store bought plants over the years. Force of habit, I guess. I never planted them, though. What a shame. That wasteful practice has come to an end, as of now.
File Flower Seeds to Help SproutingYou can file the flower seed a little bit to help germinate the seed if there is a thick coating like this, nasturtium. By filing down, it'll help the water absorb. I soaked the seeds 24 hours prior then planted in soil.
Toilet Paper Tubes for SeedlingsToilet paper tubes make excellent biodegradable plant pots for seedlings. All you need are the tubes and a pair of scissors. Make four cuts about an inch long at one end and fold them in. There should be a small hole for drainage. Fill with compost and sow seeds or plant a seedling.
Planting Seed in the GardenThis is a new version of a pipe for planting seed in the garden. The old version of my idea was posted last year on May 3rd.
Used Tea Bag to Sprout SeedsRemove the staple and string and snip a tiny hole in your used tea bags and place your seeds inside. Keep moist and in a few days your seed will sprout. From there, you can place in a small pot or directly into your garden. No need to remove the bag. It will protect the young root from any disturbance and pests and break down naturally.
Looking for Comfrey Seeds?I'm looking for some comfrey seeds. I can't find them from the usual seed sites. I'm willing to swap them for some of my seeds (such as hard to find papalo) if interested in swapping for the comfrey.
Growing Hydrangea from Seed?What do hydrangea seeds look like when they first sprout? I planted some hydrangea seeds, and have been waiting patiently for them to sprout. I have noticed some white spots in the tray where I planted them. But am not sure if it's the hydrangea spout or not.
Water Viability Test On Seeds?I just collected a few thousand seeds off of a dried up aster type flower in a pot from a nursery. Can I test the seeds now (Sep 29) so I know which ones to keep. Will it hurt to test them now if I thoroughly dry them again before storing the viable ones? Or do I have to wait till spring?
Growing Profusion Zinnias?Every spring I sow tall zinnia seed directly in the ground. Can I do the same thing with Profusion zinnia seeds or do I need to start them inside first and then transplant? I have been buying new Profusion zinnias each year. I would like to save the seeds and try planting them instead of purchasing every year.
Growing an Avocado Tree from Seed?I watched a "how to grow" video and it suggested that you peel off the brown outed layer of the avocado seed and then place it in water. I was really surprised to find next day that the seed was almost covered in a brown layer again. Is this unusual, has anyone had that happen?
Plants Grown from Seeds Dying?I have grown lots of flowers from seedlings. My sunflower plants sprouted and started to grow, but slowly they started moulding and at last dying. I really don't know why this happening. Is it because I'm watering them daily? I have used 50% soil, 15% cow manure, and 45% coco peat mixture for seedlings plantation.
