An Ear to the Earth 

The sounds of soft rains and warming breezes open the spring season, and if we listen closely, we can even hear other signs of the world coming back to life. Sounds, such as those of bulbs and seedlings pushing their way up towards the light, gently remind us that it is time to help green the world around us by nurturing seed-grown plants. Starting seeds is an act of faith and stewardship, and our role in bringing all of this to fruition is simple: we merely need to ensure that the seeds that we sow get what they need to germinate and develop into mature plants.

Seed starting guides (Here’s a links to our favorite local/NYS supplier; https://hudsonvalleyseed.com/blogs/blog & our own gowanus nursery seed starting guide .) and seed packet instructions provide all sorts of data about what various seed need, such as soil, water, germination temperature, and light requirements, to break out of dormancy and push their first leaves (cotyledons) through their seed coats. But, if we pay attention to when plants flower, fruit, and set seed, the plants themselves tell us how to facilitate this naturally occurring process. For annuals and most vegetables, the time that they flower or mature provides clues as to when they will need to be started from seed. Early season crops and flowers, such as lettuces, spinach and calendulas are sown when temperatures are cool, early in the spring so that they have the conditions they need to develop in the cooler months of spring. The seeds of flowers that bloom in summer and vegetables that are harvested later in the season, such as tomatoes, peppers, beans, basil, and marigolds, require warmer temperatures both to break seed dormancy and to prosper in the garden once temperatures have warmed. Listening to plants is a key factor in succeeding in the practice of the art of gardening.

At Gowanus Nursery, we believe in growing and offering a variety of plants grown from seed and encourage our customers to take part in art of growing from seed as well. From sowing seeds on a sunny windowsill or under lights to the spreading of seeds, such as those of poppies or love-in-a-mist that are best sown where they will grow (in situ), spring is the moment when many of us can take a role in this time-honored process. Early spring is the perfect moment to start many seeds indoors and in the garden so they have the conditions they need to germinate and prosper in the seasons ahead.

Plants tell us what they need, and by listening and responding, we have the opportunity to steward a diverse landscape and environment for us all.

seeds are available for pickup orders & we can mail to you. Check availability on WHEN & WHERE tab above.