How To Propagate Seeds Outdoors

Annuals can be grown readily from seed in most cases. The method
of growing depends upon the delicacy or hardiness of the seed,
and may require planting in frames or pots initially,
transferring to the bed only when the weather is sufficiently
mild and the plants well grown.

Many perennials and biennials may also be propagated from seed.
This method, however, is not suited to all perennials, and some
of the methods already discussed will yield more fruitful
results. Typical perennials which can be propagated from seed
are: Hollyhock, Christmas rose, Columbine, Bleeding heart, Baby's
breath, Foxglove, Butterfly weed, Primrose, Larkspur.

Depending on the variety of seed, most annuals and perennials
which can be grown by this method can be planted in seedbeds out
doors. The time for planting varies. A few can be sown in autumn,
but most, however, should be sown in spring, and, to be safe, not
before the last frost has passed.

The big disadvantage of outdoor sowing is that one sacrifices
control over the circumstances under which the seeds will
germinate. In an indoor hotbed, or coldframe, conditions of
moisture, heat, etc., can be regulated. Not so in the outdoors,
where dryness or changing weather can destroy the weaker seeds
quickly. If an outdoor seedbed is planned, choose a spot with
good soil.

Then work in a portion of your compost pile, pulverizing the soil
to the depth of 3 inches. Adding some sand and peat moss
increases the effectiveness of the bed. Most seed may be planted
on the surface, and the deepest one should plant is 1/2 inch. The
bed should be well-watered after the seed has been broadcast over
the entire area. The bed can then be lightly tamped.

About the Author

Paul Curran is CEO of Cuzcom Internet Publishing Group and
webmaster at Trees-and-Bushes.com, providing access to their
nursery supplier of a range of quality plants, trees, bushes,
shrubs, seeds and garden products.Visit their
seeds section now to find a great selection of seeds for your
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