Robert from Middleburg, Florida writes, “Where can I find a calendar for when to plant seeds?  Most things I find are when to plant small plants.  I just built a hot bed and would like to know what seeds to plant and when.”

A seed-planting calendar for north Florida would certainly be a great way to remind vegetable gardeners when it’s time to start seeds indoors or under glass. It’s so easy to let the time slip by. I’ll have to develop one and post it. Thanks for the idea.

In general, you’ll want to start most veggie seeds 6 to 8 weeks before you plan to set the seedlings out in the garden. For some of the faster growing plants, such as some summer squash plants, seeds are started 4 to 6 weeks in advance. Seed packets usually detail how far in advance seeds should be started before moving outdoors.

So, when you start your own seedlings, you really have to think ahead!

I am often asked what growing medium I use to start my seedlings. I have tried several peat-based starting mixes and have had good success, however, my favorite starter mix is not a peat based mix at all. It's a combination of worm castings and coir fiber (coconut fiber), such as Natural Beginnings seed-starting mix available from Gardens Alive and Garden Solution First Start Seed-Starter from Gurneys. The worm castings/coir fiber mix costs more than most peat-based mixes but it gives my seedlings a wonderful start. Use my custom search engine to find a variety of seed starting mixes and formulas.