Wednesday, February 29, 2012

Sprouts and Thinning, Planting Petunias Week 4


I found this in our garden--Orchid/Iris Lady Beatrix Stanley.  They pop up early, even before crocuses but never this early.  And it is the beautiful blue in the photo.  I might not have blue petunias this year (they still aren't popping up), but these are such a dramatic harbinger of spring.


Our cat London is keeping me company while I plant.  Although she often gets into trouble, she doesn't dig in the dirt or bother seedlings I start in the kitchen.  Maybe that's because I plant grass for her and her sister Ebbie and it's all theirs.


This is thinning week.  I really hate pulling out those baby shoots.  I use a tweezers to facilitate the process.  In the peat pots I might leave two shoots for a little while if they're far enough a part.  As you can see, the root is already over an inch.  If I don't thin them, they will get tangled and stunt growth.


The first seeds I planted are growing much faster than last year.  I lowered the grow light and in only a month, a few have four leaves.  I water every 24-48 hours, adding water to the pan the peat pots sit in and then spritzing the top.  I'm thinking about planting a few more petunias since they are coming up this fast.  I'd like mature plants to add to patio containers in May.

Hopefully this week I will ready a second grow light in preparation for planting tomatoes.

Have a great week and happy planting!

Karen Rose Smith


2012 Karen Rose Smith






 



6 comments:

Jodi Lea Stewart said...

You brought some of my Granddad Woods' "farmer blood" to the surface with this post, Karen! I love how you handle each plant so delicately. This has definitely put me in the mood for spring!

KRS said...

Jodi--When I started doing this, I came to a new respect for plants and growing things! My BFF's daughter says I treat them like babies. :)

Cora said...

You patience is amazing. I love plants, planting and growing things, but haven't gotten in to starting early in peat pots. You're an inspiration!

KRS said...

Cora--Maybe because our son is far away, but I like taking care of animals and plants! There is something miraculous about watching that tiny seed turn into a plant that actually blooms in the summer.

katpark098 said...

There is that feeling of satisfaction and fulfillment when you see your plants grow. Like for me, when I do rose planting, and see how colorful, healthy and vibrant the flower will become it gives me a sense of peace.

KRS said...

Kat--I have roses in the house whenever I can from our bushes. I also make sachets from the rose petals for Christmas presents. Thanks for commenting.