The air was thin and brittle, like paper.  It sliced through flesh, wrinkled with every breath, and crumpled under foot. It was as if nature had been wrapped in a thin layer of cellophane, restrained and crinkling with every movement.  It was a bitter and unforgiving landscape that stood stark and vulnerable.

January has certainly lived up to its reputation, and February has been known to be just as formidable.  To help combat the winter blues and/or cabin fever, why not consider getting a jump on Spring?  Let’s sow some seeds…outdoors.  That’s right!  Outdoors!

  • Plastic milk jugs are the perfect vehicle in which to sow your seeds.  They will act both as planter and mini greenhouse.  To prepare the jug, cut around the belly, horizontally, and leave about 1/2″ below the handle to act as a hinge.  You’ll need to add a few drainage holes to the bottom, and a few on each side.
  • Add soil, somewhere between 3-4″ and moisten.
  • Add your seeds!  Follow instructions on the packet for planting depths, close the lid and tape.  Look to frost tolerant, hardy perennials and veggies for best results.
  • Find a place outdoors that offers plenty of sunlight but has some protection from cold, drying winds.
  • When temps begin to warm, and seedlings emerge, open the container on sunny days but remember to close at night to protect from cold temps.
  • In Spring, when soil temperatures have warmed, transplant your seedlings into the ground, like you would any other plant.

Sowing seeds outdoors in Winter may seem counter intuitive, but not only is it effective, but it’s a great way to chase the winter blues and unleash the inner gardener in you!  Reach out to Sweeney’s with any of your winter related questions or concerns.   We proudly serve the communities of Villa Park, Elmhurst, Oakbrook, Oakbrook Terrace, Glen Ellyn, Lombard, Wood Dale, Itasca, and more!

Sweeney’s:  A Plant Based Company

Plant of the Week

Scentsation Honeysuckle Vine

Showy vine with fragrant buttery-yellow flowers bloom from mid Spring to late Summer, followed by bright red berries.  Prefers full sun, and moist, well-drained soil.  Grows 12-15′ tall and 4-6′ wide.  Excellent when trained on trellis or fence.  Non invasive.  Attracts butterflies, hummingbirds, and other wildlife.

“If you would reap Praise you must sow the Seeds, Gentle Words and useful Deeds.”
― Benjamin Franklin

Warm wishes,

Kim Sweeney