Winter Sowing seed in containers

[Jean]

I have recently sown a number of seeds in plastic bottles and other clear top containers for winter sowing. Has anybody else tried this?

You punch drain holes in the bottom, cut the bottle almost all the way around under the handle or 2/3 way up, punch holes in top to allow air circulation. Put a couple of inches of potting soil in bottom, plant seeds, put a piece of duct tape on to close top and bottom of container, mark container contents, and set outside. Check periodically to see if it is drying out. When weather warms up, you can remove the screw-on cap.

Jean

[Marty Maraschino]

I did this last winter with recycled salad bar containers and had some luck and its kind of fun to be playing in the dirt long before winter is over. I just had trouble finding the right tool to make drainage holes with without tearing the containers. If anyone else is interested there is a whole forum called Winter Sowing on the Garden Web it has a huge FAQ section with photos.

[Jean]

There is also a place called WinterSown.org. Not sure if I am supposed to post other web places, but this one is great. Has a seed list.

Jean

[Pharmerphil]

I may try that on a few things, being an old Missourian, I know it would work there, but not sure about here in Minnesota, zone 4, but zone 3 is a mere hour and 15 minutes away! :rolleyes:

[TennOC]

I may soon have to start slapping my own hands, lol. They are really wanting to start a few tomatoes. It's been in the 50-70 degree range here lately, in January! My Daffodils are coming up. I TRY to wait till the middle of feb to start things, but I'll never last that long, got the gardening bug.

[strmywthr3]

wintersown.org and the forum on gardenweb are connected (gardenweb is hosting wintersown's forum). I plan on trying this method this year as I have had trouble starting seeds indoors. There are quite a few veggies and flowers that can be grown this way including tomatoes and peppers.

[flowerpower]

You will get the best results if you sow seeds that need (or can take) the cold. So sow perennials, biennials, and self-sowing annuals. If I tried to winter sow tomatoes, they would not germinate until May. That is when I start seeing "volunteers" popping up.

[Laughingpanther]

One variable is how much sunlight can get in your house. During the winter, a south window is best. I have already started parsley, basil, onions, broccoli Raab and tomatoes in containers and they are all doing well. For transplanting to the outdoors, three inch peat pots work well.

[strmywthr3]

with wintersowing, your containers are actually placed outside of the house, not inside.

One variable is how much sunlight can get in your house. During the winter, a south window is best. I have already started parsley, basil, onions, broccoli Raab and tomatoes in containers and they are all doing well. For transplanting to the outdoors, three inch peat pots work well.

[Jean]

I get tomato "volunteers" coming up, too, so am trying some tomatoes in my winter sowing. Planted the seed outside in containers first week in January. I have tried to start seeds (with varying results) in my house, and they sometimes get too leggy. I have south windows and fluorescent lights over them, but don't have room for a lot of seedlings.

The working philosophy behind this is that seeds come up when it is the right time, and are "hardened off" to a certain extent when you remove them from the bottles or whatever container and get a better start.

This is the first time I have tried this, but gardeners in Canada and northern tier states are reporting good luck. I love to experiment!

The forums and WinterSown.org give lists of seeds and people's experiences.

Jean

[Laughingpanther]

with wintersowing, your containers are actually placed outside of the house, not inside.

Actually, you can grow them indoors if you can get sufficient sunlight on the plants and have space for them. Most of my indoor plants can't be put outside yet.

[strmywthr3]

indoor seedstarting and wintersowing are 2 different concepts. I've not had much luck starting seeds inside, so I'm going to try wintersowing. check out www.wintersown.org for more info.

Actually, you can grow them indoors if you can get sufficient sunlight on the plants and have space for them. Most of my indoor plants can't be put outside yet.

[Vera_EWASH]

I start wintersowing the tender plants around late February (like pepper/tomato). All other's (natives, re-seeding annuals, hardy perennials) I start in December/January. This will be my 3rd season to WS.
As pointed out the wintersow forum @ gardenweb is a good place to start jumping in! Lots of good folks, experiences, and the FAQS are a goldmine of info :)

Happy Gardening!

Vera

[Laughingpanther]

indoor seedstarting and wintersowing are 2 different concepts. I've not had much luck starting seeds inside, so I'm going to try wintersowing. check out www.wintersown.org for more info.

Okie dokie. Some things you can grow during the winter in the south. My dad has a batch of greens growing now, but in Alabama you can do that. Good luck with your wintersowing.

[bunkie]

woohoo! 3 more days and winter sowing begins! are ya ready???! :D

i did it for the first time last year and had wonderful results!!!

[bluelacedredhead]

I totally forgot this year. Guess I better hustle. I got some other gardeners interested though on Facebook. One posted about it yesterday.

[GreenZone]

So, has anyone tried winter sowing sunflowers?

[LuvsToPlant]

There is also a place called WinterSown.org. Not sure if I am supposed to post other web places, but this one is great. Has a seed list.

Jean
Jean...
WinterSown.org is a wonderful site and the host is Trudy...she is a member on
this forum and visits now and then.
Her member name is WinterSown

I have been winter sowing for years...probably longer than Trudy is old
I use any seeds that like a stratification or can benifit and survive the freezing temps.
The plants are so much more vigorous than those started indoors.
I have used the same method as yours as well as just leaving trays of
six packs in a shelted area in the wi nter.
(actually, thats how I got started)
Enjoy your winter months of winter sowing instead of dreaming for spring.
I start mine in January...here at home.
:)

GreenZone....Sunflowers work great!

[blueribbontomatoes]

So, has anyone tried winter sowing sunflowers?

I let them self-seed, does that count? They tend to come up in the paths and have to be moved.

[bunkie]

i'm going to try sunflowers this year too. also, more cole veggies. i did mostly herbs and flowers last year.

[w8in4dave]

I am so glad I found this thread.. I wanted to start one.. I winter sowed one year was so excited but my jugs kept blowing over and I got nothin.. this year I am going to try it again, I tried growing stuff in the house , when I transplanted most died.. Guess they didn't get hardened good enuf.., I am going to put my jugs in a milk crate so they don't blow around.. I am going to tie a string around the top and use the tagging method to tag whats in the jug..with a piece of tin from a pop can.So it doesn't fade..But I think I am going to start after the holidays..My biggest problem here is the wind.. We live out i the open and we get 80 mile an hr winds at times..

[bunkie]

w8in4dave, we've had a few threads on this topic, but this is the only one i could find in search....not sure why....before, i was going to start a new one too!

i put the bottles and jugs in crates and plastic laundry baskets you get for a dollar at the Dollar Store last year and nothing got knocked over. they worked really well. i used popsicle sticks for labels inside (2) the containers, and then i printed with a magic marker on the outside, just to be safe. the sticks worked really well.

[SherylGallant]

Last year I winter sowed some things out on the deck that were covered with snow until spring. Only the lupins sprouted. It was a dissappointment. They kept getting shovelled and knocked around. This year I put some shelves at the end of our half enclosed long front porch and am putting them there. I have wintersown this year: hellebores and jack in the pulpit, because they must have the winter stratification. I planted those there in the summer so they get the summer they need first (long and complicated germination). Anyway, I am going to wintersew a lot of things this year on the porch shelves.

I have a LOT of perennial seed but would like to start some veggies that way. Are there vegetables that winter sow well? I guess they would have to be veggies that reseed themselves from the previous summer. Ground cherries and goji berries!! I am going to try them.

[bunkie]

sheryl, here's a list of veggies one can winter sow...

http://www.wintersown.org/wseo1/Vegetable_List.html

Allium family (onions, shallots, garlic, chives)
Artichokes (zone seven and warmer)
Beans
Beets
Brassica family (cabbage, broccoli, kale, collards, etc)
Carrots
Celery
Celeriac
Chards
Corn (select an "early" type as it can germinate at lower temps)
Curcubit family (cukes, squash, pumpkins, melons, gourds)
Herbs (edible and ornamental)
Leafy Greens
Lettuces
Nightshade family (eggplant, tomatoes, peppers, potatoes - from real seeds....not "seed potatoes" ;-)
Oriental veggies (any)
Parsnip
Peas
Radishes
Spinach

[tashak]

My problem with wintersowing the year I extensively tried it was our frequent winter and spring freeze and thaws/warm ups, each of which could last 7-18 days. Some would come up in a thaw/warmup spell, then would freeze and die. Might be worth trying again, maybe starting much later in the season, closer to early spring. This year may be different for snow (we normally have at most 1-3" at a time on the ground, though this year we already had a 12" layer, now currently only c. 4-8") but normally there is not enough of a snow layer to provide insulation.
I haven't yet been able to dig out the fall Asian greens and turnip and spinach greens to see if any have survived.
Usually only the top inch of soil, at most, stays frozen all day and night in a cold spell.
Maybe wintersowing would work better in my area if I dug basins 3-5" below ground level and put the wintersowing jugs in these?
I like the idea of wintersowing, but it so far hasn't worked for me.

[w8in4dave]

I had an Idea... Bing!!! I was wondering if the big plastic tubs would work?? You know the storage tubs?? I know I could fill that baby up with alot of seeds .. And I could have enuf dirt in there so it wouldn't blow away.. It would look nice and neat... I could put them on the s. side of the garage..

Tashak I am trying to figure it out also.. So We are in the same boat.. I know it will work I just don't know what I am doing wrong.. Besides them blowing around the few that didn't blow around didn't get anything..

[bunkie]

sounds like a good idea w8! have you and tashak checked out the wintersowing site? there's lots of info about what to grow in your areas and what containers and such there.

i wish trudy would show up. she could probably answer a lot of your questions.

just found the links to our discussions last year here...lots of info...

http://www.idigmygarden.com/forums/showthread.php?t=12830&highlight=winter+sowing

http://www.idigmygarden.com/forums/showthread.php?t=5898&highlight=winter+sowing

http://www.idigmygarden.com/forums/showthread.php?t=13006&highlight=winter+sowing

[cottagequeen]

One more day! So, what is everyone sowing for the solstice celebration?

[Wind Dancer]

I had an Idea... Bing!!! I was wondering if the big plastic tubs would work?? You know the storage tubs?? I know I could fill that baby up with alot of seeds .. And I could have enuf dirt in there so it wouldn't blow away.. It would look nice and neat... I could put them on the s. side of the garage..

Tashak I am trying to figure it out also.. So We are in the same boat.. I know it will work I just don't know what I am doing wrong.. Besides them blowing around the few that didn't blow around didn't get anything..

Big containers seemed the way to go here too. Lookin' around, I found a black plastic tub made to mix concrete in. It already has holes drilled for drainage
because I used it to hold new daylily plants until I could get them planted.

The only thing that might be a drawback is making sure the markers stayed
properly in place. Put a stripe of paint on one end and make a planting diagram
in the garden notebook using the paint marker as the starting point for the first row or rows? Might keep things straight if the markers got shuffled around.

Also, on wintersown.org there was, and probably still is, a list of germination
results for seeds sown at different times during the winter sowing season. If
you can check that out it might be helpful to you.

Wind Dancer

[chilzany]

woohoo! 3 more days and winter sowing begins! are ya ready???! :D

i did it for the first time last year and had wonderful results!!!

Ok now, this topic is a new one to me! Can I? Dare I? I've got the garden all covered in straw and leaves and horse manure and compost right now. If I turn things in after the new year (after I get back from spending holidays with family) to expedite readiness for outplanting in April-May-June, and then do winter growing on the back porch-this would be a grand way to experiment! woo hoo!

I've been saving containers too for starting in the house towards Feb-March-but I don't have a lot of in-house room for flats, so....this sounds like a worthwhile experiment. Yes! Think I will get some things started in a couple weeks with the wintersow ideer. Could even cross-compare with some started in the house a bit later, and see how well they each do when outplanted. I'm jazzed now.

[Sean C]

I use mostly 1 gallon plastic milk jugs. We go through a couple a week in our house. I cut them in half, fill them halfway with soil, moisten and plant my seeds. I then use duct tape to put it back together and place the cap over the top. I always punch a few holes in the cap and when it gets a bit warmer, I remove it altogether.

I haven't tried veggies yet but plan to this year. I have had luck with several flowers.

[w8in4dave]

sounds like a good idea w8! have you and tashak checked out the wintersowing site? there's lots of info about what to grow in your areas and what containers and such there.

i wish trudy would show up. she could probably answer a lot of your questions.

just found the links to our discussions last year here...lots of info...

http://www.idigmygarden.com/forums/showthread.php?t=12830&highlight=winter+sowing

http://www.idigmygarden.com/forums/showthread.php?t=5898&highlight=winter+sowing

http://www.idigmygarden.com/forums/showthread.php?t=13006&highlight=winter+sowing

Yes bunkie .. Thanks I have been to the site.. A very good site to may I add.. Lots of pics to show how to do it and stuff.. But They show small things I need something big so when we get 80 mile a hr. winds they don't blow away.. Thats all, Did I miss something?? .. Ohh I probably did...

[LuvsToPlant]

w8in4dave...
Yes... you can wintersow in any large container.
If the soil is already frozen outside...just add
an inch of fresh soil and then the seeds.
(Keeping in mind if they need light or darkness to germinate)
If the container is sheltered from the rain/snow then gently give a
watering, otherwise mother nature will do it's job.
:)

[SherylGallant]

I am going to wintersew more flowers, definately. Peony poppies and many more, I think, to cut down on the spring planting time. You have pumpkins/squash on your list. Do those seeds survive being frozen? I have never had one grow in the garden from seed dropped last year. Carrots, hmmmm... I would like to start those early in flats. I haven't had a lot of success growing those. I want lots next year for juice. I may start many flats of carrots on the porch, just to get them going early.

I am going to start winter sewing right after Christmas, if not before. The ground is covered with snow and ice now but our local dollar store, Dollarama, has wonderful potting soil in small bags 2/$1 and its really good stuff, not all peat.

Time to start making newspaper pots!!

[bunkie]

ahhh sheryl, i love making paper pots, but won't start those till just before early spring.

chilzany! go for it!

more ideas for anchoring down contaainers...use the bottoms of plastic kitty litter containers...either put your containers in them or use them as potting containers.
drive stakes into the containers to hold them down.
use chicken wire fences over the containers to hold them down, or make boxes out of chicken wire to fill with containers.

another idea i saw last year and i think it's on the winter sown site is using plastic baggies. amazing! and, if they were full of wet soil, i don't think they'd blow away. i've been saving old used ones for this year.

here's another site...look at what she uses for markers...plastic knives! and i like the use of her large water jug....

http://iwetmyplants.com/category/winter-sowing/

[bluelacedredhead]

I'm trying used baggies for wintersowing this year as well. Ziplocs that had frozen veggies in them as well as the bags that milk comes in here in Ontario.
We have high winds here being just a few blocks from Lake Erie, which has me thinking about where to place the containers. However, I'm more concerned with the raccoons, skunks, possums, cats and squirrels, therefore I don't think I'm going to wintersow varieties that I only have a few seeds of or would have difficulty replacing.

[SherylGallant]

Great idea to use those clear milk baggies! I used to rinse and save them and will start again, just for planting. I could use those on the windowsill too with a couple of little paper pots in them, close the lid until it sprouts and open for seedlings to grow. The bag would catch the water underneath.

Thanks for the idea!
We use a lot of milk.

[w8in4dave]

Ok I found a site that kinda had the same idea I had.. I was thinking of a clear tote and filling it with dirt .. kinda a mini garden... but I found this site and it shows a tote with pots in it.. thats a good idea!! Heavy enuf it won't blow around (I hope) I don't want to waste my precious seeds :D , I think I will start them after the 11th of Jan. and from what I read that should be fine ..

[LuvsToPlant]

w8in4dave...
just remember to make drainage holes...in the totes
I will be starting mine as well in January. about the same zone.
:)

[Tom C zone 4/5]

There is also a place called WinterSown.org. Not sure if I am supposed to post other web places, but this one is great. Has a seed list.

Jean


Trudi Davidoff Is the promoter of and genisis of GW's wintersown forum and the back bone of wintersown.org.

I know she has posted her seed offers here.

This year my tomato crop failed so I've sent her mostly woody plant seed and beans.

[w8in4dave]

ahhh sheryl, i love making paper pots, but won't start those till just before early spring.

chilzany! go for it!

more ideas for anchoring down contaainers...use the bottoms of plastic kitty litter containers...either put your containers in them or use them as potting containers.
drive stakes into the containers to hold them down.
use chicken wire fences over the containers to hold them down, or make boxes out of chicken wire to fill with containers.

another idea i saw last year and i think it's on the winter sown site is using plastic baggies. amazing! and, if they were full of wet soil, i don't think they'd blow away. i've been saving old used ones for this year.

here's another site...look at what she uses for markers...plastic knives! and i like the use of her large water jug....

http://iwetmyplants.com/category/winter-sowing/

Yes thats the site I seen that uses the big plastic containers.. Thanks..
Thanks Luvs, hey my next question is why only an inch or two of dirt? Why can't I fill it fuller to make it heavier?? My thought on that was maby it takes the dirt to long to warm up?? And the plastic baggies?? For?? I seen the large water jug believe me if I had one I'd use one :D

[LuvsToPlant]

w8in4dave...if the big containers are all ready filled with soil and frozen
then you only need to add an inch of soil to plant the seeds
:)
Never used baggies myself...as long as it has drainage
...can use just about anything.

[w8in4dave]

I am buying new containers so they don't have dirt in them already .. Anyone know what kind of dirt I should get?? They have some organic dirt at the hardware store but lastyear I used that and there were just to big of chuncs in it..I%>0can never find stuff fcr starting seeds ..I may have to co to lowes`or something I guess..$The only thang is they really don#t have to(much as of`right now.. I kinda wafted to mix`stuff myself". Any suggetions? They!20are using$baggies for$wintersowing?!3F Ohh they-20would blow away here...How do they keep them from smashing the plant when it rains and stuff??

[puttgirl]

I may try that on a few things, being an old Missourian, I know it would work there, but not sure about here in Minnesota, zone 4, but zone 3 is a mere hour and 15 minutes away! :rolleyes:

In the colder areas of the country, just start them a little later, like in mid-February. I've had great luck wintersowing!

[LuvsToPlant]

I start mine in January...the only time ...I have time.
It really doesn't matter how early when you start them in colder regions...
They aren't going to germinate till the time is right...in the meantime
the seeds lay dormant.

w8in4dave...filling large containers can be expensive
have you concidered using rocks at the bottom for weight?

Anyhow...I fill LOT"S of large containers with my work...
The cheapest material that is a good growing mix is:
80% milled peat moss
10% vermiculite small (horticulture grade)
10% small perlite
and about 1 tablespoon of lime for every two gallons mixed.
That's homemade...
otherwise better known as Pro Mix

[bunkie]

:D

By Dea O'Hopp (Dea)
December 24, 2007

The 25th of December is a day we always winter sow our poppy seeds. I made a mistake last year and decided to save hubby the work and do it the "night before". The following explanation and apologies to Clement C. Moore :)


http://davesgarden.com/guides/articles/view/259/#discuss

Twas' the Night before Sowing

Twas the night before sowing, when all through the house
The puter was quiet, yes even my mouse.
The seed packs were flung by the chimney with flair,
In hopes that in spring, Papavers would be there.

Dear Hubby was nestled all snug in our bed,
While visions of Papavers danced in his head.
And "dog" in his ‘kerchief, and I in knit cap,
Wandered out in the cold, gardens don't need a map.

When out in barren roses there arose such a clatter,
I turned quickly around to see what was the matter.
Twas Hubby knit capped, he was there in a flash,
My surprise of early sowing was gone in a dash.

The glow from my flashlight on new-fallen snow
Gave the lustre of mid-day to gardens below.
When, what to my wondering eyes should appear,
But the seed packs from Hubby, he is such a dear,

With his big gnarly hands so lively and quick,
He tore open each pack that I'd saved, with a flick.
More rapid than eagles the seeds oh they came,
And we read as we threw them, and called them by name!


"Now Somniferum! Nuidcale! Sheldonii and Flavum!

On Alpinum! Rhoeas! Burseri and Glaucum!

To the ground and surroundings! To the top of rock wall!

Now dash away! Dash away! Dash away all! "

As dry leaves that before the wild hurricane fly,
When they meet with an obstacle, mount to the sky.
So down to the compost the seeds they did flew,
With the energy that seeds have, of course our hopes too.

And then, in a twinkling, we heard in a poof,
The prancing and pawing of each little hoof.
As we turned round our heads, and were turning around,
In our view came the deer and they came with a bound.

Ornery critters all bold, gonna nibble some root,
But they did not expect my sweet hubby's big foot.
He pressed on the peddle of our John Deere and smack!
The blaze from the headlights ran off the whole pack.

His eyes-how they twinkled! his dimples how merry!
When he saw the deer run, for tonight they were wary!
If they'd only known toe on pedal ain't slow,
Cuz a man and his Deere wants to see the stuff grow!

"So why did you come out to help and not lurk? ,

I was gonna surprise you and save you the work"

"Side by side we have planted, tonight's no repose,

We do this together for always, you knows!"


We sprang to our bed, to the pup gave a whistle,
The seeds were all flung, didn't step on a thistle.
Take heed Winter Sowers, tonight is the night,
Happy Spring to you all when Papavers are in sight!

[LuvsToPlant]

oh Bunkie !!!!
:)

[Jean]

Love your "twas the night before sowing."

I have found that tomatoes do very well here with winter sowing, but not peppers.

It's interesting to experiment and see what does do well, and what experiences others have.

Petunias are another good choice for me.

[kyaggie]

Poem cracked me up. Am going to try wintersowing tomatillo and ground cherries this year, as they always get leggy and weedy under the gro-lights. Also going to try some cole crops, especially cabbage. We always do lettuce in cold frame.

What do you think of starting melons early in a winter-sown method? I have some Piel de Sapo that is 100+ day to maturity. We have rains in the spring that usually prohibit planting until late May. I know melons don't like their roots messed with. I have started cukes before in this manner with success, but melons? Not sure. What is your experiences?

[bunkie]

glad you liked the poem all...it wasn't done by me, but another. i posted her name at the beginning...Dea O'Hopp (Dea).

kyaggie, i haven't tried melons or veggies yet, but am doing so this year. i would think that anything that has had volunteer plants in the spring would work. and now i'm trying to remember if any melons ever volunteered in the spring?! i know they have in the compost pile! :D i might try a couple seeds for the heck of it!

kyaggie, i usually make paper pots or soil blocks and start the melon and cuke seeds early in those. that way it doesn't disturb their roots too much when being transplanted.

[kyaggie]

kyaggie, i usually make paper pots or soil blocks and start the melon and cuke seeds early in those. that way it doesn't disturb their roots too much when being transplanted.

If I understand you, you are putting the whole paper pot in the ground, and letting it "rot" away....thus not disturbing roots. And yes, I have seen zukes and watermelon volunteer....so yes I am going to try a few squash and melon seeds with "wintersown." If they don't work, I'll direct seed and hope for best.

I've seen the little wood thingy-ma-bobs for making paper pots. How hard are they to use? I hate paying good money for "peat" pots.

[bunkie]

If I understand you, you are putting the whole paper pot in the ground, and letting it "rot" away....thus not disturbing roots. And yes, I have seen zukes and watermelon volunteer....so yes I am going to try a few squash and melon seeds with "wintersown." If they don't work, I'll direct seed and hope for best.

I've seen the little wood thingy-ma-bobs for making paper pots. How hard are they to use? I hate paying good money for "peat" pots.

yes ky, the paper rots and the rootsa never are really disturbed. long ago i bought the wooden paper pot maker and still have it today. it's been a wonderful tool for me.

there are many threads on this subject, and many ways to make the pots with cans, etc.... here's one link i found...

http://www.idigmygarden.com/forums/showthread.php?t=597&highlight=paper+pots

if you do a search, there's lots more...

[cottagequeen]

kyaggie, here is a link to a thread on here that has a couple of links to tell you how to make the paper pots without the special wooden tool!

http://idigmygarden.com/forums/showthread.php?t=532&highlight=making+paper+pots

[cottagequeen]

Bunkie I think we posted the same link! didn't realize u had do to I kept getting a server is busy!

[bunkie]

no problem. i kept getting that busy server message too! i know, about a year or two maybe more, there were threads started on paper pots and soil blockers, but i am having trouble using the search thingy, for some reason lately.

[KentuckyGardenGirl]

I may soon have to start slapping my own hands, lol. They are really wanting to start a few tomatoes. It's been in the 50-70 degree range here lately, in January! My Daffodils are coming up. I TRY to wait till the middle of feb to start things, but I'll never last that long, got the gardening bug.

I am sooo with you! The weather here has been fantastic and I'm basking in the glow of springtime weather in December. I'm from northern Washington so 50-70 is what we get there in the spring...and sometimes summer. I'm so anxious to get my garden started so I think I'll start looking into starting some seeds inside and see what happens :)

[puttgirl]

I start mine in January...the only time ...I have time.
It really doesn't matter how early when you start them in colder regions...
They aren't going to germinate till the time is right...in the meantime
the seeds lay dormant.

w8in4dave...filling large containers can be expensive
have you concidered using rocks at the bottom for weight?

Anyhow...I fill LOT"S of large containers with my work...
The cheapest material that is a good growing mix is:
80% milled peat moss
10% vermiculite small (horticulture grade)
10% small perlite
and about 1 tablespoon of lime for every two gallons mixed.
That's homemade...
otherwise better known as Pro Mix

Generally you're right, Luvs, but the reason I wait a little longer for some things in PA is that I've had a few things germinate and then get hit with a late frost and get wiped out again-so I just feel a little safer waiting another month!

[w8in4dave]

Ok I have a lil idea .. If I start some stuff then tip the plastic container upside down so the bottom is up in the air ..will that work? I can put a big rock on it.. So I will start some stuff in paper pots set them in lil plastic containers set the plastic containers on the lid of the big containerthen snap the bottom of the big container on top make sure there are drainage holes and holes so the water can get in .. then I can put a big rock on top to keep it from blowing away .. what do ya all think? I have been looking for a big container to fill with dirt but it is hard to find one with a clear lid!! So either the lid has to be a diffrent color or I try it upside down.. it is 4 degrees out there now so I am not starting it right away LOL

[LuvsToPlant]

w8in4dave...
experimenting is the best way to learn
If you don't try...you will never learn the outcome...
then there's serendipity
:)

puttgirl...
Always keep your ear on the weather...as a gardener.
For frost in spring or fall you can prevent a lot of losses
by covering them and protecting.

[bunkie]

......
puttgirl...
Always keep your ear on the weather...as a gardener.
For frost in spring or fall you can prevent a lot of losses
by covering them and protecting.

that's so true luv, especially after the seeds have germinated. had to go out and cover mine several times last spring.

[w8in4dave]

w8in4dave...
experimenting is the best way to learn
If you don't try...you will never learn the outcome...
then there's serendipity
:)

puttgirl...
Always keep your ear on the weather...as a gardener.
For frost in spring or fall you can prevent a lot of losses
by covering them and protecting.

It is the best way to learn but I hate to lose great seeds if it isn't going to work is all ... So I do not think I am going to do it that way.. Even tho I really don't think the lid has to be clear.. if it is big enuf ..It's a thinkin thing.. there is some big plastic container on sale at menards , we are going to go look at them tomorrow .. Hubbs said they have clear lids.. we will see when we get there..

[LuvsToPlant]

I see what your saying now...
Yes it would be best for the lid to be clear
That would be like putting a roof on a greenhouse
:)

[bunkie]

.. Even tho I really don't think the lid has to be clear.. .......

on trudi's site, she says that if you can see your thumb through the lid it's ok. so clear is not necessary....til they start germinating!:D

[springfever]

On wintersown it says to throw the cap away on the milk container, does that mean that you put the milk jug outside with no lid? I know it says cut in half, put your soil and seed in, tape together. Oh, I assume it has to have holes in the bottom but do you really leave the cap off?

[LuvsToPlant]

Yes springfever...you leave the cap
off the milk container...it just helps allow "a little" of the elements
rain / snow to get in and keep some moisture.

Most of the containers I used over the past 30 years was
one gallon milk jugs.
The last of the kids have flown the coop...
My milk jugs have dwindled down.
I bought a gallon of milk a day...
now I'm once a week.
chee!
:(

[bunkie]

i also poke a few holes in the sides and neaar the open top. like luv said, it helps let moisture in, and, it also will help if too much moisture gets in.

[tsteven1]

I knew that there was a good reason to check in today! You guys/gals have me fired up to learn more about winter sowing now. Thanks to all for sharing experience and planning.
Tim

[lovetheland]

Yes, this has been a good thread. I started some Rose Rugosa seeds in a milk jug this week. Wish me luck. I wonder if there is enough winter left to get them to germinate. I hope so, because I am very anxious to start one of these rose bushes as soon as I can.

[springfever]

ok, hold my hand and walk me thru this. I got some grape tomato seeds today. So, I'm going to take and empty milk jug, cut it in half, poke holes in the bottom and put some good soil in it, then put some seeds in and a little more soil on top. Then I'll tape up the jug, leave off the lid and sit it outside. right?

[puttgirl]

Yep, Spring, that's about it. Poke some holes near the top, too. I agree with Bunkie, they don't have to be transparent. I've used the milk jugs that are sort of opaque. Actually, a couple years ago, I left the lids on mine and they grew just fine that way, too. I poke alot of holes around the top, though. I guess I should get on with mine, too, maybe get me out of this seasonal rut!
Don't forget to mark them first, especially if you're using alot of jugs! I used a sharpie on the bottom before I cut them.

[w8in4dave]

Ok well I got some containers to start my ws but I have to poke holes in the lids and bottoms first ..should I drill holes or just poke holes?? what kind of dirt should I get?? Seeds starter?? I went to menards and they have seeds in already!! I was so excited!! I got some but shhhhh don't tell Dave..

[LuvsToPlant]

your choice ...drill or poke
You didn't mention the material they are made of
What ever is easier for you....
Soil...yes since your starting seeds...a seed starter would be good.
The soil depth only needs to be 2-3 inches, they wont
be in there too long before transplanted.

I promise...I won't tell Dave
why would Dave be mad?

[bunkie]

i always stick a popcicle stick in for labeling too, just in case the outside fades.

[cottagequeen]

menards has heard of wintersowing!:eek::D:cool:

[w8in4dave]

They are plastic tubs I think , rubbermade storage containers..2 are 41 Qt. I think the other 2 are 15 qt ... Clear plastic mostly .. the other is kinda like a milk jug not quite clear .. the 41 qt is kinda flat to go under a bed, storage.. the 15 qt. is not that short..but smaller :D 'I think I may drill the holes so I don't crack the plastic.. the bigger totes were 7.99 a piece the smaller ones were 4.49 each..Dave won't really be mad he just kinda rolls his eyes at me ..
Ok so my next question is .. should I plant my stuff in paper pots and put them in there or should I just put the dirt in there and plant?? I'll take pics of everything when I get my camera out of the truck :D...I sure hope this works ...I have some tomatoe seeds that are unknown I may try those ...

[bunkie]

w8, i guess it would depend on how you want to transplant them...or are you gonna leave them to grow in the big pot? paper pots would separate easier than dirt, maybe.

i guess i'm gonna have to try some tom seeds now. i haven't tried them yet. mainly flowers and herbs.

[puttgirl]

Yes, me too. I was always a little afraid to try tomato seeds. Maybe this year, with some that I know I have plenty of seeds of.

[w8in4dave]

I do have some flowers I want to try .. I keep forgetting about them.. Petunias :D I love planting Petunas in my brick pots .. They are so pretty against my white garage.. But the tomatoes like I said the first time I tried this they blew all over when we had 80 mile an hr winds and I lost eveything... So I think I'll try my unknown tomato seeds.. It'll be a suprise!! I still have to drill my holes and get more dirt..We don't eat popcicles around here but I will figure something out to mark them..hmmmmmm

[bunkie]

w8, you can get popsicle sticks or even wooden tongue depressors in the craft part of the stores, like a thousand for a couple plus bucks.

[LuvsToPlant]

They are plastic tubs I think , rubbermade storage containers..2 are 41 Qt. I think the other 2 are 15 qt ... Clear plastic mostly .. the other is kinda like a milk jug not quite clear .. the 41 qt is kinda flat to go under a bed, storage.. the 15 qt. is not that short..but smaller :D 'I think I may drill the holes so I don't crack the plastic.. the bigger totes were 7.99 a piece the smaller ones were 4.49 each..Dave won't really be mad he just kinda rolls his eyes at me ..
Ok so my next question is .. should I plant my stuff in paper pots and put them in there or should I just put the dirt in there and plant?? I'll take pics of everything when I get my camera out of the truck :D...I sure hope this works ...I have some tomatoe seeds that are unknown I may try those ...

..."Ok so my next question is .. should I plant my stuff in paper pots and put them in there or should I just put the dirt in there and plant?? "

Good question....hmmm
I seems to me... using such a large container, it may be better to sow several seeds in an individual pot and put inside.
Paper pots I would discourage, they will fall apart.
Peat pots will stand up a little longer.....
Then another problem could occur if using different types of materials for pots.
If you have plastic pots and peat pots in the same container...their water needs will be different, the peat will dry out faster.
I would suggest using all the same material.
Now planting directly into the container....
Using more than one type of plant use pose as a problem
One could grow faster than another, the leaves could shade out another
or the roots could grow faster than another type of plant
So, yes I feel sowing seeds in different containers and put in the larger container would be best.
Be sure to drill holes on top for ventilation as well.
:)

ps. tomato seeds are great for winter sowing!

[w8in4dave]

Well then....The planting the same thing in each container , I didn't plan for, but I can change it...No problem...The popsicle sticks I guess your right, Crafts 2000 here I come :D well not today .. But the holes? ok you say some things will need more water.. are you saying certain things I grow, i'll have to drill more holes in the container?? Yes I did plan on drilling on top also ..thanks for the reminder.. I'm sorry so many questions but I want to get this down pat so I can do it right every year....Thanks for all the help :D

[w8in4dave]

w8, i guess it would depend on how you want to transplant them...or are you gonna leave them to grow in the big pot? paper pots would separate easier than dirt, maybe.

i guess i'm gonna have to try some tom seeds now. i haven't tried them yet. mainly flowers and herbs.

I seen a couple youtubes on making paper pots.. some make some flimsy ones , some pretty darned strong ones..I was not planning on leaving them grow in the big pot..Not deep enuf..They would seperate easier than dirt but .. oh well guess i'll just plant them in dirt..maby next year plan on lil paper pots.. thanks for the input :D

[bunkie]

hey w8, don't worry about all the questions! last year was my first year winter sowing and you should see all the questions i asked!!! the winter sowing website has lots more info on it now, too, as well as pics.

i think luv's is right about big pots in the large container. that's what i did and am doing. i used a lot of 6 plus inch pots and filled them with potting soil and seeded them, covered them with any plastic tops i could find, with holes, then put them in crates..like milk crates. the crates kept them together and from falling over. i also used laundry basket, wire baskets, etc...

i agree with luv on the paper pots too. not sure they'd hold up...maybe i shoud try a couple....

i also used plastic milk jugs, pop bottles, cottage cheese containers, anything i could find. now, it's a project to save things that would work all year round!

i found trudi's idea to plant the seeds thick and then take chunks out to plant very easy, especially with flowers.

not to worry about how many holes, either. put in a few in the top. if the soil inside is getting too wet, poke more holes in the top, as they will help add air to the mix and let out some moisture. trudi wrote a whole bit about this too. it's all experimenting and having fun.

[w8in4dave]

Thanks bunkie...yes I did have someone tell me to seed in milk jugs then put them in crates but I have only 1 good crate..I think I get the big pots in the large container now.. it had me confused for a while..

[TN Griller]

I had an Idea... Bing!!! I was wondering if the big plastic tubs would work?? You know the storage tubs?? I know I could fill that baby up with alot of seeds .. And I could have enuf dirt in there so it wouldn't blow away.. It would look nice and neat... I could put them on the s. side of the garage..

If you are talking about the clear storage totes with a lid like sold at Walmart be aware that in about 8 months the UV from the sun will make them so brittle that that will crack into 100 pieces.......found that out the hard way!

luvstoplant, thanks for the sunflower wintersowing info. My wife (mtnmommy (http://idigmygarden.com/forums/member.php?u=8485) here on iDig-she's new) asked me about this very thing tonight and I didn't have an answer, until now! She is wanting to start some plants this year, get her master gardeners certificate, and a degree in turf management soon. You all welcome her when you see her posts OK?! Thanks!

[w8in4dave]

Thanks TN Griller, Yes thats the totes I was talking about..Well then after paying so much for them ..maby plan b?? I hate to spend that much just to have them 1 season..No worries I will come up with something :D Yes we will welcome her :D ...send her to this thread she will learn alot :D

[bunkie]

excellent point about the plastic storage totes tn! i found out the hard way too. i have left 2 in the greenhouse lsat year and they broke into a thousand pieces when i tried to move them after one summer. i have a couple crates that did the same thing. what's up with the plastic they're using these days???!

will say howdy to mtnmommy when i see her...

one other thought i had was to use baling wire (any kind of wire) and tie the containers together. or even a little chicken wire (any kind of fencing) around them.

one other thing, if you have large pots, you can plant in smaller pots and put them in the big ones. oh, the ideas are endless!!!:D

[kyaggie]

Tickled to report I started a few wintersowns this weekend. Since this is a new concept, and I am a bit dubious....selected varities that I intend to use on the deck for quick access to the grill and dinner table...not main crops. I also used seed I have alot of so if this fails, well I have plan B. LOL

I wintersowed black cherry toms, yellow pear toms, coyote toms, ground cherries, and tomatillos. Started poppies, hollyhocks, and johnny jump ups as well. Have some herbs need to start, but ran out of containers and time.

[puttgirl]

I did a couple milk jugs today, too, alpine strawberries and sweet annie!

[springfever]

I gathered up 10 of the small pop plastic bottles, cut them in half, poked holes in the bottom and top and found something to put them all in.
I started to put the soil and seeds in but got distracted trying to decided what to put in them and started sorting seeds. (smile)
So, the actual seeding will wait til tomorrow.
decisions, decisions. I think some of the cherry tomatoes in one, maybe some cinnamon basil in one, chives in one, a watermelon seed in one, a tigger melon seed in one, ..

[springfever]

I should read over my posts before I hit send.

[puttgirl]

Chives are good, Spring-that's the ONLY way I can get chives to germinate!

[LuvsToPlant]

Good mention on the UV rays and plastic storage containers...

This may help...
I live in the cold zone 5
and when I winter sow...I always put my containers on the northside of the house.
The suns rays are very warm in the winter months and can heat up those containers
like a greenhouse....Some could gerrminate in dead winter on a few warm days
You don't want that...
So I keep them out of the sunlight...the seeds still germinate a the "correct time"
By then, when they germinate...I bring them out to the morning light first
increasing gradually as well as removing tops as the days warm.
They are ready soon to transplant into the garden...
Store containers for next year
:)

[nedwina]

Good mention on the UV rays and plastic storage containers...

This may help...
I live in the cold zone 5
and when I winter sow...I always put my containers on the northside of the house.
The suns rays are very warm in the winter months and can heat up those containers
like a greenhouse....Some could gerrminate in dead winter on a few warm days
You don't want that...
So I keep them out of the sunlight...the seeds still germinate a the "correct time"
By then, when they germinate...I bring them out to the morning light first
increasing gradually as well as removing tops as the days warm.
They are ready soon to transplant into the garden...
Store containers for next year
:)

Thanks luvs, that's a great footnote.

And thanks everyone, for their input here. I am so going to try this.

One thing I would add: heating up an awl with a candle (or whatever) to melt holes in plastic works well for me. No cracks, no plastic sawdust mess. Just do it in a "well ventilated" spot. :D

[LuvsToPlant]

...or soldering iron works very well :)

[lovetheland]

I have a longer handled two tined grilling fork. I stick it in the hot coals of our wood stove and after a second poke it in any containers I want to use.

[w8in4dave]

So what your saying is go ahead and use the plastic containers , put them on the north side of the house?? Thats nice to know because I was going to put them on the south side..OK well I am going to trust you on this one . :D you all know more than I do..I have a soldering iron but I think I'll let hubbs use his drill :D

[puttgirl]

Oh, this thread's got me in a wintersown fever-I just did some crazy daisies. Something tells me I'm going to have to redo my perennial bed!

[springfever]

I found a plastic napkin holder that is used for picnics with little places for other things. It worked just great to put 10 plastic pop bottles in it . Of course I can only put a couple seeds in the small bottles but going to try it.
Question, my deck is on the east side of the house and it's not covered. I do have a covered porch on the west and south side so where should I sit my little holder?

[LuvsToPlant]

I always suggest to put on the north side (maybe a little on the eastside)
While they are in a dormant state...reason being, when they are exposed to the sun
even in the winter months...it can heat up rather nicely on sunny days in the
little "make shift" greenhouse and may cause germination too soon.
They will germinate when the day temps are right... in nature..
even on the northside.
When they do germinate...the days will be warmer and you can at that time
expose them to a sun a little at a time.

I have been winter sowing for 30 years...and have learned through the mistakes.
:)