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Re: Unidentified subject!

> From:          "Sonnie Croft" <newleaf@bright.net>
> To:            <seeds-list@eskimo.com>
> Date:          Fri, 18 Sep 1998 08:26:29 -0400
> Subject:       Unidentified subject!
> Reply-to:      seeds-list@eskimo.com

Sonnie writes:

> I have a pack of wildflower seeds which says "best to plant in fall".  If I
> sow these seeds anytime in the next month or so, some will surely germinate
> and leave tiny seedlings to try to survive the winter.  Surely most will
> freeze to death.  So, when directions tell one to plant in fall, does this
> mean wait till Nov. or early Dec. when weather is cold enough to prevent
> germination till spring ?  Sounds simple enough when I write it out, but
> why don't they make this clear on the seed packs?
> 
> Also, I have some seedlings of Lupin (seed pack says "plant in fall" - OK,
> I rushed things here) which are just starting to produce second set of
> leaves.  Is there any way to save these seedlings till spring ?  I have a
> greenhouse, but I don't think these plants will like growing in pots all
> winter for setting out in spring - I believe they develop long tap roots
> and wouldn't have enough room for this in pots.  Can I put them in groups
> in really DEEP, large pots ?  How would they then be treated ?  TIA
> 
> Sonnie
 
    Sonnie, any wildflower pack will have many varieties.  It would be
vary difficult to give instructions on each.  Mixes are determined
with the geographical region they are to be planted kept in mind. They
are also selected with their cultural requirements taken in to
consideration.  A plant needing special treatment will be in its' own
pack with its' own instructions.
     Plant any time in the fall, you need not wait till colder
weather.  Mother Nature will handle the requirements of each.   Fall
sprouters will not be harmed the first winter.  Many plants stay small
developing large root systems. Your lupine will have no problem. 
Disturbing them would be a mistake.  Because they are small though,
watch so that leaves don't keep them covered.  They will rot easily
and be destroyed by slugs. Still concerned, take white foam cups with
a few holes in them and cover them.
     If you are in a drought situation like I am, don't water your seeds in.
Let mother nature do that unless you are prepared to continue watering
until drought conditions cease.  It can be deceiving as the weather
changes in the fall.  Dry conditions can persist and kill fall
sprouting plants. They will lay dormant until the right time.
Best luck,
Stephen
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