zone 8b – Page 3 – Lake Mary Gardens

It’s cold but Spring is on the way

In this video, I have an update on my winter sowing journey. I am experimenting with three different methods: sowing directly in the ground, utilizing milk jugs, and placing seeds in various containers, as well as using a cold frame for protection against the elements. Each method offers unique advantages, and I’m eager to see how they perform throughout the season. The winter sowing containers are a surprise that I am particularly excited about, and I will share my observations and results in a future update, detailing the progress and any challenges I encounter along the way. Stay tuned!

Copenhagen Cabbage Growing in 4 gallon pots

Lavender, Snapdragon, English Daisy and Shasta Daisy Seedlings

Spring Flowers

I have had some decent results starting my seedlings early and keeping them in a cold frame. I did see frost damage on some of the smaller Foxglove seedlings, so I probably moved those out too soon. I am starting seeds using other methods to ensure an optimal chance of success. I have been starting with a weeded bed and simply sprinkling poppy and snapdragon seeds. My first round of seeds was late November in Zone 8b. I watered them in, and hopefully they will sprout in time for spring. I am also trying the milk jug method and started one for the Foxgloves after I noticed the damage on my smallest seedlings. I threw some Foxglove seeds out into the beds, figuring, why not? I can sow seeds of cold-hardy plants every month until February. With many seeds sown, surely some will make it in time for Spring!

Snapdragon seedlings- red leaves indicate red or dark pink blooms

Snapdragon seedling- green seedlings indicate white or light colored flowers