Starting Seeds Indoors

 Living in the Pacific Northwest in a cool climate (Zone 8), planting outdoors starts in the middle of April for cool weather plants. I start my seeds indoors 4 to 10 weeks before last frost, depending on the vegetable and soil temperature recommended for planting in the ground.
     I start my seeds in the Jiffy Peat Pellets, so I don't have to mess with soil. You can buy them in a package or purchase a starter kit. Start by soaking the pellets in water until they are fully expanded, then you place the seeds 1/4 inch deep. Make sure you put the tray by a sunny window and water to keep soil moist. Make sure the room temperature is within the required range for germination.
     If the plant outgrows the pellet before you are ready to plant in the ground, then transfer to a larger container, making sure you don't damage the roots of the plant. Use seed starting soil to fill up larger pot. Press the soil gently but firmly around the plant and water again to moisten thoroughly.


This week I will start my seeds for the following.

1.  Lettuce - Transplant into containers in full sun early spring, when soil temperature reaches 50 degrees. Slugs are a problem until the spring rains slow down. I do  successive planting every 2 weeks, so I have a continuous supply of lettuce. The summers don't get too hot, so I can plant through most of the summer. 
2. Chives - Transplant in the ground in full sun / partial shade, when soil temperature reaches 55-65 degrees. 
3. Endive - Transplant in the ground in full sun/partial shade, when soil temperature reaches 45 -55 degrees.
4. Celery - Transplant in the ground in full sun, when soil temperature reaches 60-70 degrees.

Happy Planting!

Ruby