Cool Foods Campaign - STARTING FROM SEEDLINGS

Take a Bite Out of Global Warming

STARTING FROM SEEDLINGS

During the initial growth stages, many seeds have very specific requirements for water and sunlight. These requirements can often be hard to meet without using lamps for direct, intensive light, often inconvenient for most backyard gardeners. However, nurseries and farms often have greenhouses or heat lamps to help start their seeds before transplanting them when it is time. So for some pickier crops, like tomatoes and peppers, you may wish to buy seedlings and transplant them directly into your garden when their time comes (see: when to plant). If you are going to start from seedlings, be sure to look for organically grown seedlings. Many greenhouses or garden centers do not use organic seeds and treat their seedlings with synthetic fertilizers, which will contribute more greenhouse gas emissions to the atmosphere. Be sure to ask about organic seeds and seedlings at your local garden center, organic nursery, or farmer’s market before purchasing. During the spring, many farmers market vendors will also sell tomato, pepper, or seedlings from other slowly maturing plants to give you a head start. Here are some useful links to locate seedlings:

Organic Consumers Association

Also, check out: Locating farmers markets

Locating local farms