They're growing!

It's a little embarrassing to admit that I actually screamed when I saw this little seedling had popped up just a few days after I planted it. But yes... I actually did.
I can't believe it germinated so fast!
Here's what I did.... I went to a local nursery (I highly recommend finding one and getting to know the folks there) and ASKED them what I needed to start some seeds.
I expected them to hand me a kit, but instead the lady at The Natural Gardener pointed out several things that I could use. I chose some seed starter mix -- which is like potting soil -- some of those little trays with about 30 little dishes, and seaweed concentrate.
When I got home, I soaked the seeds overnight in the seaweed according to the directions -- each vegetable in their own little dish. The I filled each little hole in the tray with the mix, but not all the way. I carefully put in two seeds in each hole, then covered them up with more soil, depending on how deep each seed needed to be (it says the planting depth on the package). I made sure I labeled what I put in each hole.
Then I watered the seeds... but if you try this, don't use a watering can with the one little spout. the water will pour out too hard and the soil and your seeds will float right out the top. Either get one of those shower-head watering cans, or so I I do... I have a spray bottle that I keep filled with water so I can spritz my houseplants. I just used that to keep the seeds moist.
A couple of days later they started to sprout!

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Seeds of Life

I want a fall vegetable garden – often called a “second season” garden. And if you want a vegetable garden, you’ve got to start with something, right? Right… but what?
I’ve got a few choices – I could buy some seedlings, buy seeds or start a new plant from one I’ve already got. HMMMMMMMMMMMM…..
I’m going to go ahead and rule out the “starting a plant from one I already have” idea. I’ve got a few tomato plants, but I’m not thrilled with how they’re producing. I also think I’d like some different varieties, because these three are all cherry tomatoes. How about some big slicers?! Mmmmmm…
So… I guess my other two choices are seedlings or seeds. Both are good choices. Since I’ve been back in Texas, I’ve pretty much stuck to seedlings. But you know, seeds aren’t that hard to start, and they’re pretty much what you should use for peas and beans and such. I also think the quality of the fruits are a lot better.
Okay – seeds it is.
But where to get those seeds from?

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Homegrown tomatoes

There's nothing like a homegrown tomato.
Seriously… there isn't.
I challenge you to taste one you bought from the store, and then taste one you or your neighbor grew. There's a huge difference in taste. There's just something about the flavor of a tomato that disappears almost the instant it's stashed in a refrigerator. It's fresh, crisp, aromatic. It's that true tomato flavor.
It's one of the many reasons gardeners can be obsessive about their tomatoes -- sometimes forsaking all other vegetables -- just to concentrate on growing that perfect tomato.

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