Fresh Food Gardens

Early spring planting is all about the soil temperature.

Even after a few warm days if your soil temps are still in the 30s, nothing’s really happening. Seeds just sit there.

A simple soil thermometer makes a big difference. It takes the guesswork out and lets you know when it’s actually time.

Right now, our uncovered beds are still below 40°, but inside the cold frame we’re over 50°. That 10–15 degree bump is enough to get things moving.

That’s why we’re comfortable seeding things like arugula and spinach in there expecting that they should germinate within about a week at those temps.

Before planting we prep the soil with some kelp meal and an all-purpose fertilizer. These beds were put to bed well last fall, so they don’t need much right now. Maybe top off with a little compost soon.

I got a couple of rows in today and we’ll check back next week to see how things are coming along and decide on the next row of successions.