This is just an update on the in-ground seed flat that I showed a photograph of in the first garden entry for this season, and in that entry, I wrote brief instructions to make an in-ground seed flat.
In the flat, I planted these seeds:
- Zinnia, Giant, Scarlet Flame
- Milkweed (thanks Michelle)
- Sweet Basil
- Catnip
- Sweet Marjoram
- German Chamomile
- Lemon Balm
I planted the flat on May 1st or 2nd. The zinnias germinated within the week and the herbs and the milkweed have recently started germinating.
Here are images of the flat.
The first one shows it covered and I keep it covered all the time. I uncover it to check on it and then cover it back up. The item holding the plastic up is an old damaged Shepard’s garden hook.
A photograph of the flat opened.
This photograph is a close up of the tiny herb seeds.
These herb seedlings are tiny and it took them almost two weeks to germinate. Seedling size and germination time are two of the reasons that I chose to start the plants in this way.
When the seedlings are bigger, I can transplant them into the garden.
Side note: The zinnias that grew in my garden last year are coming up from last years matured seeds in many places in the garden. I’m sure the goldfinches had something to do with this. Last year they sat on the zinnia flowers, mainly the pink ones, and pulled seeds out to eat them. They dropped a lot of seeds.
The zinnia freebies are everywhere and I try not to trample them when I work in the garden. I will move most of them next week.
Elaine says
Your garden is doing well. Glad the birds were of such help to you
A side note that has nothing to do with your garden but do you get to chose the anti-spam words that are generated? Your words are always positive and easy to deal with.
Appliejuice says
It looks great! I would not grown catnip in my garden. I am afraid every cat in the neighborhood would come for a visit and stay. 😆
Donna Young says
Elaine, yes, I get to choose the anti-spam words. 🙂
I’ll have to rethink about where to put the catnip, maybe the edge of the woods would be a good place. 😀
Appliejuice says
Do you dry your catnip or give it to them fresh? Maybe I should try to grow some. You only give that stuff to the cats, right? Or can you cook with it?
Donna Young says
Applie, I am going to use the flowers in tea. 😀 I will also dry some of the leaves and stems for my cat.