5. Good Organic Gardening - September-October 2016 AvxHome.in

Spring | GARDEN CALENDAR
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1. Asparagus shoots are appearing around about now
2. Self-sown cherry tomatoes may be popping up here and there
3. Sow seeds that are hard to germinate in punnets or seedling trays
4. Plant Asian greens in more humid areas as they tolerate high rainfall
5. Renew the mulch around fruit trees to protect soil and reduce weeds
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Growing from seed
Early spring is an ideal time to raise plants from seed. Sow seed
either directly where it is to grow, or in punnets or seed trays filled
with seed-raising mix. Large seeds such as corn or pumpkin that
are easy to handle and seeds of plants that resent disturbance,
such as carrot, are best direct sown. Small seeds or seeds of
plants that are hard to germinate can be better managed if they
are started in punnets. Raising warm-season seedlings in punnets,
which can be kept in a warm sheltered spot, also allows gardeners
to get a head start where the soil is cold or the weather fickle.
Lightly cover seeds with a sprinkle of mix and keep the seedbed
moist. Transplant seedlings when they are large enough to handle
(usually two to three weeks after they emerge). Soak seedlings
before transplanting and water them into their new home with
a seaweed solution to help reduce transplant shock.
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