Is October too late to plant?
October is the perfect time to plant trees, shrubs, conifers, and hardy perennials—or spring bulbs like tulips and daffodils—and if you’re looking to sow cover crops or install lawns, now is the time for that as well. When it’s October, people often wonder if it is too late to plant new seed. The good news is if you hurry, seed can still be planted in October with the hope that it will survive the upcoming winter. Although September is the best time, often we can still plant grass seed up to October 15 with good results.
Should you plant seeds in the morning or afternoon?
Sow seeds early in the morning so the water has enough time to permeate the soil and get warm throughout the day. You can do it in the evening but make sure the seed flats stay warm overnight. Keep sown seeds away from direct sunlight and keep at a temperature of 75F-90F degrees—double check for specific seeds. Soak seeds in warm water for 24 hours Soak Seeds First. Be sure to soak your seeds in warm water for 24 hours before you start sowing. This is a great and free way to help you get your plants ready to take root and grow strong.
Which seeds to plant in the fall?
In your vegetable patch, you also can try seeds of cold hardy vegetables such as beets, kale, lettuce, spinach, carrots, leeks and others that can withstand frost. Herbs, including dill, will do well when seeded in the fall. You will need to prepare your planting bed the same way you would in the spring. Quick-growing vegetables for cool spring and fall gardens include leafy greens, carrots, beets, radishes, and peas. Many are ready from seed to harvest just four to six weeks.
Can I plant seeds straight into the garden?
Growing from seeds indoors is one way of starting your garden. Another option is to tuck seeds directly into soil outdoors. Planting seeds this way is called direct sowing, and it is an easy process that yields great results. Fill your seedling pots with this pre-moistened seed starting mix. Sow your seeds. Place two to four seeds on the surface of the seed starting mix, and gently press the seeds down so they’re nestled in nicely. If your seeds are very small, like basil or mustard, you can leave them uncovered.