Hey Mary. You're just in time here in our zone. Start with the FAQ's to get the basics. Then check out Trudi's database on Wintersown.org's website for our zone. And if you have any other questions, just ask.

Most perennials can be sown anytime now. Annuals and tender perennials should be done in March. Veggies around mid-april since our last frost is early May.

Welcome to your new addiction. :)

Thanks a bunch! I will check the link out. Mary

Hi Mary, and welcome to the forum. It's a friendly place with lots of great people.

I noticed your post on the marking containers thread. You stated that you use mini blinds, plastic cutlery, popsicle sticks and sharpie pens. After reading this post I wasn't sure if you were referring to using those items for winter sowing purposes, so I wanted to reiterate some conventional wisdom from winter sowers.

Mini blinds are great for marking either containers or permanent plantings. Ditto plastic cutlery. However, most sowers are not satisfied with popsicle sticks. While they are often used for indoor sowing (not us), they generally degrade over the course of winter, leaving us label-less. Sharpie markers will fade in the sun on winter sowing containers properly placed outside. It's been proven time and time again.

Some options for labeling WS containers with success include:
1. Paint pen on plastic cutlery or miniblind
2. Pencil on miniblind
3. Sharpie on duct tape, stuck UNDERNEATH the container.
4. Grease pen, or china marker, inside the container.

Welcome again, and best wishes,
Seedmama