New Seed Types Have Arrived

Saturday, January 29, 2011 03:50 AM

This time of year, the staff and gardeners alike, enjoy going through the seed racks to see what is new and different for 2011.

This year we are carrying a new seed line for us called 'McFayden Select'. They have some different seed varieties that certainly stand out for being different and colourful. For example there are geraniums that are 'Pinto Series Red' and 'Orbit Synchro Hot Pink' that are sure to brighten up the flowerbed.

For the shady area of the flowerbed try planting some Impatiens 'Xtreme Hot Mixture F1' or 'Accent Cranberry F1'.

There is also a flower called 'Lisianthus 'Vulcan Purple Picotee F1' that makes a nice cut flower because of its strong stems and beautiful white cup shaped flower with deep purple edges.

If you enjoy starting petunias you will want to take a look at the 'Double Pirouette Purple F1' which has double fringed flowers that have white and purple picotee patterns. (as shown in photo)

All of these varieties that I've mentioned require a long growing period and so must be started indoors now if you want to enjoy the flowers over the summer months.

When starting seeds indoors use new containers or wash out last years containers with a mild bleach solution so that you do not carry over any disease or pest. Because the seeds are very tiny you will want to use a starter mix which is finer than indoor potting soil.

Fill the containers with soil that has been moistened and then sow the seeds according to the instructions on the packet. For best results, cover the seeds with a plastic dome and provide bottom heat to help seeds germinate. Bottom heat can come from a heat pad, or heated floor, or the tray can be placed on top of a fridge or hot water tank.

As soon as the seeds have germinated the plastic dome needs to be removed and the bottom heat is removed. You want to make sure that there is good air circulation to prevent damp off and do not keep the starter mix too moist or else there may be a problem with fungus.

Once germinated the young seedlings need to have lots of uniform light. Grow lights hung 6-8 inches above the seedlings on adjustable stands work best so that they can be moved as the seedlings grow. They can also be fertilized with 10-52-10 a water soluble plant starter fertilizer following the instructions given on the jar.

As soon as the seedlings have grown their first set of true leaves they can be transplanted and given more space or put into individual containers. Continue to fertilize with 20-20-20 for strong healthy growth and then in late April switch to 12-36-12 to promote blooms.

Before planting outdoors harden off the plants by first placing them outdoors during the day and bringing them in at night for a few days and after all risk of frost has passed they can be planted outside.

Starting your own seeds is a rewarding part of gardening and if you have the space and proper equipment it can be a positive experience!

-Jos

Jos Van Hage owns and operates two Art Knapp Garden Centres in Prince George

· Highway16 west at Kimball Road

· Highway 97 North at Northwood Pulpmill Road

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