We got a live one, ya'll! He's already got a cold frame!

Wade, You'll want to start with the FAQs at the top of the page or at this link. We sow seeds in the winter using a variety of containers, recycled/purchased/repurposed. Perennials are started now while it's cold. Once the weather warms up and the last of the frosts are close, we sow annuals and veggies. If there's a seed for it, we can almost certainly grow it. You just have to know when to sow it.

Many recommend Miracle Grow potting MIX, not soil for their containers. Another one is ProMix. Me, I use anything I can get my hands on that's light, fluffy, and has good drainage without packing down.

I have a cold frame too. Tomorrow, I'll be sowing a bunch of containers to put in there. They'll germinate quickly and get planted out as soon as they have their second set of leaves. Perennials can handle the cold, and our soil never truly freezes except on the north side of the house. It's gardening all year long.

Hello, Wade. Welcome to the forum.

Yes, as token said: we sow seeds in mini greenhouse or cold frame whatever it is called.

The emphasis is on drainage and ventilation.
We also try to keep our cost down by using recyclable containers, such as milk jugs, 2 liter bottles, pastry trays, etc.

There are many good reasons to Winter Sow:
· It is the easiest and cheapest way to grow plants from seeds.
· No damping off problem.
· No need to harden off the seedlings.
· No need for grow lights.
· Germination is great - often too good...lol
· It is a fun thing to do in winter.
· You'll get to enjoy the camaraderie at this forum.

:-P

Please check out the FAQ
and please give it a try. You'll never regret it.
:-D

I dont usually give advice but since everyone else seems to be out doing something else tonight I will chime in here. After you have read the FAQ and understand all of the benifits of Winter Sowing then I would like to add that I prefer using the Winter Sowing method for perennials so that they do not take up room in my little greenhouse. I don't have a cold frame but I would probably feel the same way about it too, since I am in a colder zone and have a shorter growing season. And I do plan to try spring sowing annuals this year too.

Welcome to the WS message boards. Stick to this board and you'll learn so much and find some very knowledgable people who are willing to share their experiences and are very generous. Great people..type in the words Wintersown.org into your browser..and you are in for the ride of your life!