Starting Perennials from Seed is Emotional.

Perennials can be better established when started with a cutting. Being the wild forager and vegetable gardener I am, I was not privy to this knowledge until I purchased my seeds. Not that it can't be done but wow, an emotional rollercoaster. I am having a very "will they won't they" relationship with my seedlings right now. It feels like high school; entirely out of my element and unsure of the world around me.

But fear not! We are working it out. I had constructed a little hoop greenhouse in the early spring when the temperatures were dipping down into the low 30s. I knew perennials were hardy, they come up year after year and survive harsh winters (usually). But I wasn't so sure about seedlings. I was half right. Some seeds like Motherwort LOVE it cold and too much heat will fry them. Echinacea, however, likes it a little warm. Then there is the light issue. Hyssop likes it dark, while Echinacea and Bee Balm like it sunny. My head spins with the reminder that plants are so much like people. Each one is unique with different needs and comfort preferences.

When starting perennials from seeds, if you are a beginner, I suggest doing your research and prepare yourself for multiple seed starting stations to accommodate them. Every blog, seed packet, and gardeners guide will give you a portion of the information or worse, conflicting instructions. In these circumstances, I recommend referring to multiple sources. Here is a list of things you will want to know about your seeds:

Best time to plant in your growing zone

Expected germination rate

Do they like it dark or light? Warm or cold?

Do they have specific soil needs?

Watering instructions

How long will it take to grow full size?

This feels like a lot for me, especially when you are trying to start many different plants at once. But I know that I will get the hang of it and eventually these plants will feel like old friends. At least I hope so.