Forecast low temps over the next few days are F 32, 29.29.and 18. There is also a F53 high coming up, when I will have to take off the cover of any containers where seeds have already sprouted.

Are any other winter sowers seeing early sprouting this year?

Oh yes, the hardening off dance - in and out for days on end with trays and pots. Anyway, best to get the cauliflowers outside so put them out in the day and bring them back under cover at night for a week or so, just to get them used to the cold. Keeping them indoors will just lead to etiolated sprouts.

Can go on for weeks and weeks with tomatoes and peppers.

Why are you considering taking off the cover(s)? If they have vent holes then leave the sprouts where they are and keep the cover(s) on.

Rodney

I have lost seedlings before to excessive heat in March, even though there are vent holes. Now, I simply take off covers for most things when the seedlings have completely sprouted. These first plants are all cold hardy brassicas, onions, and some perennial herbs. Usually it is spinach which sprouts first. I will start sowing tomatoes and peppers after March 21, using the same methods.

Last night, I removed the cover and placed the infant cauliflowers in the plastic greenhouse, where they are sheltered on three sides, including from the west, . They looked fine this morning. I seem to have some sprouting onions as well. Those I always start in milk jugs, which seem to need no special handling.