Despite the lingering winter weather on Martha’s farm, preparations for spring are well underway. In a recent blog update, Martha detailed how she has initiated the indoor sowing of flower seeds to ensure they are ready for planting once the threat of frost has abated. “Every new year commences with seeds,” Martha emphasized, noting her utilization of seeds acquired during her travels as well as those purchased online from reputable sources such as Baker Creek Heirloom Seed Company, Johnny’s Selected Seeds, and Vilmorin.
Upon the seeds’ arrival, Martha, alongside her head gardener Ryan McCallister, promptly set to work. The initial batches for this year include lupines, delphiniums, and campanulas. Ryan kick-started the process by filling numerous trays with a specialized seed starting mix containing essential components like vermiculite, perlite, and peat moss, according to Martha’s account.
After the trays were filled, Ryan meticulously created shallow holes in each cell using either his finger or the end of a marker. “The hole simply needs to accommodate the seed before being covered with additional potting mix,” Martha explained. To maintain organization, the trays were labeled with small wooden markers, specifying the particular flower and variety being planted.
By hand, Ryan introduced approximately two seeds into each cell, citing the uncertainty of germination as a motive for planting multiple seeds to enhance the chance of successful growth. Following the sowing process, Ryan gently covered the seeds with more potting mix, ensuring the seeds made adequate contact with the soil.
All trays received a thorough watering, with some subsequently placed into a commercial-scale urban cultivator that regulates essential factors like water, light, humidity, and air for optimal germination conditions. Under ideal circumstances of bright light and temperatures ranging from 50 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit, germination typically occurs within seven to 10 days. As the seedlings emerge, selective thinning is conducted to allow the stronger specimens to thrive.
Martha enthusiastically shared an image of a lupine sprout breaking through the soil just three days after planting, signaling a promising start to the season. “We’re making excellent progress, but there’s more seeding to be done. Typically, seeds are sown about two months before the final frost – our planting endeavors will extend well into March,” she elaborated.
For the original article, visit Martha Stewart’s official blog.
