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OUTDOOR
SEED STARTING TIPS
Preparing The Soil
A rich sandy loam is well adapted to gardening. Other kinds of soil are suitable, but stiff clays need plenty of fibrous material and must be thoroughly broken up. Sandy soils generally need additional fertilization.
For general use, where well-rotted stable manure is not available, a commercial fertilizer should be added. Work the soil deeply and make the top 3 or 4 inches as fine and loose as possible. Much weed killing can be done by hoeing or raking just before planting. Do not work clay soils when they are wet enough to stick to the rake or hoe.
Planting
At time of planting seed in the open ground, the soil should be moist but never wet, when avoidable. To retain moisture after planting, cover seed immediately with fine, freshly prepared earth and press it down firmly and smoothly. This firming of the soil brings the particles of earth into close contact with seeds, prevents drying out, and facilitates growth.
Plant at a time when the atmospheric and soil temperatures are most favorable for germination of the kind of seed to be sown. The best temperature for each kind may be learned from study of our cultural directions and zonal charts and by inquiring of successful gardeners in your neighborhood.
The proper depth for covering seed varies with the different kinds of seeds and conditions of soil. This can be learned best through practical experience.
When planting seed, the soil must be loose and soft so that the tender stems of seedlings can easily push through, and the young roots quickly find plant food. This is usually secured by careful preparation of the soil and by not planting fine seeds when the ground is wet.
Cultivating
Stirring the surface soil during the period of growth kills weeds, loosens the ground so as to encourage root development, allows air to enter, and helps to conserve moisture. Cultivation may be deep at first, but as the plants grow it should be more shallow to avoid injury to the roots.
Watering
When plants need supplemental watering, the best hours of the day for it are early morning or evening. The roots, however, may be watered at any time. One good soaking is better than many light sprinklings.
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