Category: Seed Starting

We have been dealing with many winter storms since the middle of February that has brought a lot of snow. While I still see some snow in the 10 day forecast I believe the worst is behind us! I’m most likely jinxing us by saying that and by moving forward and transplanting some tomato seedlings.

We are trying something new this year that honestly I have my personal reservations about. In the past years I have used recycled plant containers and red solo cups for transplanting my tomato seedlings into but I don’t like the waste of the all the plastic. Looking at options to reduce that waste and hopefully cut down on the cost, I found non woven seedling bags. Where plastic containers are 10 to 12 cents each, and solo cups in bulk are 8 to 10 cents each, these non woven seedling bags are 2 cents each. They are described as being biodegradable and allow roots to grow through the fabric when planted directly. I opted to give this a try this year because as advertised, it solves several of my problems with plastic containers.

Due to the number of tomato seedlings I have to transplant into these non woven bags, I would need a place to keep them. One draw back to these bags I saw right off was that unlike cups or containers that can sit on a table, these bags look prone to falling over. I saw people using standard 1020 trays for holding several dozen of these. I was already wanting to build a table where I could store newly transplanted tomato seedlings and water from the bottom up, so this was the perfect time to build my giant 1020 tray! This “tray” would hold my tomato seedlings and keep them from falling over. It would also allow me to both water from the bottom up and retain water that drained out of the bags when I watered top down.

my giant 1020 seedling tray — Framing my GIANT 1020 tray!

I started building my GIANT 1020 tray by putting a layer of rigid foam over a 4×8 sheet of plywood. Next I framed in the sides of my “tray” with 2×6 pressure treated lumber. After that was framed in I covered the tray with a poly pond liner. This will keep the tray water tight and allow me to do many things. Water from the top down and save water that drains through the bags, add water to the tray and water from the bottom up, or and probably the best use, will be for a shallow hydroponic tank for lettuce after the seedlings move out to the garden! (will save that bit for another article)

pond liner is used to make my giant 1020 tray water tight — Adding the poly pond liner to my Giant 1020 Tray

Since its been to cold to actually move my tomato seedlings off the heated seeding mats, I opted to start prefilling the non woven seedling bags with my potting mix.

Looking at the 10 day forecast I made a risky judgement call and with hopes the worst is now behind us, I opted to start transplanting half of my seedlings from each variety into the bags. By transplanting half, I’m hedging my bets against failure. Since I had dampened my potting soil in the bags days before, the transplanting went very quickly. In less than 2 hours I had half of my Sweetie cherry, Delicious, and Marglobe tomato seedlings transplanted into these non-woven bags.

So far I’m happy with how things are going but time is the true test. Sunday I’ll get the rest of my San Marzano and Bonnie Best tomato seedlings transplanted. I also have a lot of cabbage, peppers and other starts that could get transplanted. Because I’m not 100% sure on the weather, I’ll only be transplanting 1/2 of each into these non woven bags for now. Wish me luck!

“Lettuce” Do A Little More Everyday!

By MinerB

On February 17, 2023

In Seed Starting

Working from home has greatly improved my work life balance. Instead of spending 2+ hours commuting I can convert that into time in the greenhouse or garden. Instead of burning fuel and wasting resources and revenue driving back and forth to an office, I’m growing plants that provide the best possible nutrition for not only my family but my friends and neighbors. It’s easy to let that extra time slip through your fingers if you are not focused and have a game plan. Spring is coming quickly and if I’m going to have all our starts ready for spring I need to be moving forward everyday!

There are a few more things we are needing to get started in the greenhouse. My plans on Sunday were to get the last of my seed starting done. But the best laid plans of mice and men often go awry. We were blessed with having several dear friends drop in to say hi and see the greenhouse. This greenhouse is meant to provide not only food for us and our neighbors but also provide a source of learning for us all. I was more than happy to delay some seeding to share what we have going with good friends.

Today’s progress was to get the last of the lettuce and herbs started. In this first tray I have Tomatillo’s that will give us the best green enchillada sauce ever! Paris Island, Tom Thumb, Red Salad Bowl, Heritage Iceberg, and Black Seeded Simpson lettuce for our hydroponic tanks.

Herbs for our herb and medicinal garden!

The last tray I got done today was some Catnip/Cat Grass, Parsley, Thyme, Sage, Marjoram, and Oregano. I will be building us an Herb and Medicinal raised bed garden this year!

Make every little moment count added all together they make a big difference!

Parris Island Lettuce

Parris Island Lettuce is a type of romaine lettuce that is widely popular for its crunchy texture and slightly bitter taste. It is named after the location where it was originally cultivated, which is the Marine Corps Recruit Depot located in Parris Island, South Carolina. This lettuce is also known for its high nutritional value, as it is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber and minerals.

Parris Island Lettuce has elongated, dark green leaves that form a long head. The leaves are crisp and have a slightly ribbed texture. They are perfect for salads and sandwiches, and can also be grilled or roasted for a unique flavor. This lettuce is very versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, making it a popular choice in many kitchens.

Tom Thumb Lettuce

Tom Thumb Lettuce is a type of heirloom lettuce that has been grown for over 150 years. It is known for its small size and delicate, tender leaves. It is named after the popular English fairy tale character, Tom Thumb, who was known for his small size. This lettuce is also sometimes referred to as ‘Merveille de Quatre Saisons,’ which translates to ‘Marvel of Four Seasons.’

Tom Thumb Lettuce forms a small, compact head that is perfect for individual servings or as a garnish. The leaves are soft and tender, with a slightly sweet flavor. This lettuce is best eaten fresh and is perfect for salads or sandwiches. It is also a popular choice for decorative purposes due to its small size and attractive appearance.

Red Salad Bowl Lettuce

Red Salad Bowl Lettuce is a type of loose-leaf lettuce that is known for its deep red color and slightly bitter taste. It is a popular choice for salads due to its attractive appearance and unique flavor. This lettuce is also highly nutritious, as it is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber and minerals.

Red Salad Bowl Lettuce forms loose, frilly leaves that are deeply lobed and have a slightly crunchy texture. The leaves are bright red in color and are perfect for adding a pop of color to salads and sandwiches. This lettuce is very versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, making it a popular choice in many kitchens.

Heritage Iceberg Lettuce

Heritage Iceberg Lettuce is a type of iceberg lettuce that is known for its large size and crispy texture. It is named after its historical significance, as it is one of the oldest types of lettuce that has been grown in the United States. This lettuce is also known for its high nutritional value, as it is packed with vitamins A and K, as well as fiber and minerals.

Heritage Iceberg Lettuce forms a large, tight head that is perfect for chopping and using in salads or on sandwiches. The leaves are crunchy and have a mild, slightly sweet taste. This lettuce is also a popular choice for grilling and roasting, as it holds its shape and flavor well when cooked.

Black Seeded Simpson Lettuce

Black Seeded Simpson Lettuce is a type of loose-leaf lettuce that is known for its delicate, tender leaves and mild, sweet flavor. It is one of the oldest types of lettuce that has been grown in the United States, and it is named after the man who first cultivated it, a farmer named Simpson. This lettuce is also highly nutritious, as it is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber and minerals.

Black Seeded Simpson Lettuce forms loose, frilly leaves that are light green in color and have a slightly crunchy texture. The leaves are perfect for salads and sandwiches, and can also be used as a garnish or in

cooked dishes. The leaves of this lettuce are very tender and delicate, which makes them ideal for use in wraps or as a substitute for tortillas.

One unique feature of Black Seeded Simpson Lettuce is its black seeds, which contrast with the light green color of the leaves. The seeds are tiny and easy to miss, but they are an important part of the lettuce’s history and heritage. This lettuce has been grown for over a century and is considered a classic American variety.

In summary, each of these lettuces has unique features and characteristics that make them popular choices for different types of dishes. Paris Island Lettuce is known for its crunchy texture and high nutritional value, while Tom Thumb Lettuce is appreciated for its small size and delicate leaves. Red Salad Bowl Lettuce adds a pop of color and a slightly bitter taste to salads, while Heritage Iceberg Lettuce is perfect for chopping and using in a variety of dishes. Finally, Black Seeded Simpson Lettuce is a classic American variety with delicate, tender leaves and distinctive black seeds.

February 15th, an Afternoon in the Greenhouse

By MinerB

On February 16, 2023

In Greenhouse, Seed Starting

In the past I posted to Facebook all the things I was doing in the greenhouse and around the farm, as much for my historical records as it was for sharing. As I move away from Facebook I created this blog for the same reason. I’ll be posting lots of seemingly random things but its for my records on where things were on any give day. I hope you find something to brighten your day in them as well.

Icy Snow and Sunshine outside, Balmy Inside!

Our Favorites, San Marzano Tomato Seedlings!

Our New Seeding Trays Arrived

By MinerB

On February 12, 2023

In Seed Starting, Uncategorized

1020 seeding trays 6 cell tray inserts and humidity domes — Our new 1020 seeding trays, inserts and humidity domes are here!

When we first started doing our own seed starting, like everyone, we went and bought the Jiffy seed starter trays and pots. They were inexpensive and did the trick, or so we thought. The next year when we pulled them out to reuse they were in pretty poor shape. The linings of the plastic seed cells is so thin that most had cracked at best were pretty scrunched up. Well no worries, we’ll use them and get a few more, their cheap right? That process repeated over the next few years and our collection of cheap barely reusable Jiffy trays grew. Some from the original purchase were no longer usable. Not only had the cell walls split, but the trays cracked and would not hold water or support the cells. Also the lids cracked and got weak and barely functioned.

Jiffy seed tray — Common Jiffy Seed Starting Kit

Heading into our forth year of seed starting, I started really investigating options for sturdy reusable seed trays. I learned a lot including that they were called a 1020 tray. That got me on the right track. I then found trays labeled as heavy duty, extra heavy duty and mega heavy duty! I also found the 6 cell tray inserts that are made of the same material. They make heavy duty clear lids too! Some lids have tall domes with humidity vents.

Last year I did the math on what I’ve used in the past and what I was looking at buying in the future. The Jiffy trays and lids run between $8 to $13 a piece depending on where you buy the trays. Lets just say $9. I’ve probably bought 10 in the last 5 years and at this point they are all pretty much useless. I’d need to buy 10 more since my garden has expanded. And in a few years I’d need 10 more, and so on just to have 10 on hand for use. In this real example I’d be looking at spending $300 and would have been dealing with junk year after year and ended up with nothing in the end.

I opted to buy the best 1020 trays, cell inserts and lids I could reasonably find that if taken care of would last for years and years if not for the duration of my gardening life. I probably spent $35 – $50 on 10 heavy duty trays. Then I spend another $35 to $50 on the 120 6 cell tray inserts needed to fill 10 trays. Finally I bought the 10 clear lids which are also heavy duty to cover the 1020 seed trays. I think in total, with free shipping I was out under $200. What I got in return was 10 trays, cells and lids that would last and last and provide year after year of beautiful seedlings for our garden. I think this lesson I learned transcends into every aspect of life and gardening. There is nothing cheap about buying cheap! Spend your money wisely and buy the best quality you can afford. You’ll save a lot more in the long run!

I’m going to follow this article up with a video and write up comparing the types of 1020 seeding trays available and what my experience and opinion is on them! Stay Tuned!!

High dome 1020 lids with humidity vents!

First Try At Hydroponic Peas!

By MinerB

On February 10, 2023

In Greenhouse, Hydroponics, Kratky Method, Seed Starting

We are trying our Lincoln and Oregon Sugar Pod peas in our hydroponic barrels. I started the pea seeds in doors on Jan 22nd, 2023, just short of 3 weeks ago and today I moved them to their new home in our 55 gallon blue hydroponic barrels. From here I will string them up and they will have all the nutrient rich water they will need. I am using the Kratky Method like we do with our Spinach, lettuce and other greens. This will be our first try at hydroponic peas!

hydroponic kratky lincoln peas — Lincoln Peas in our Kratky Method Barrels!

Lincoln Peas and Oregon Sugar Pod II Peas are two popular varieties of garden peas that are grown for their sweet and tasty pods.

Lincoln Peas are an heirloom variety of pea that was first developed in the early 1800s. They are a tall, vining plant that grows up to 6 feet in height, with large, bright green leaves. The pods are typically 4-5 inches long and are a deep green color. The peas inside are medium-sized, round, and sweet, with a crunchy texture. They are a popular choice for gardeners, as they are easy to grow, produce a high yield, and are versatile in the kitchen. Lincoln Peas are most often used in salads and stir-fries, but they can also be used in soups, stews, and other dishes.

Kratky method peas — Oregon Sugar Pod Peas in Kratky Method Barrels

Oregon Sugar Pod II Peas, on the other hand, are a modern hybrid variety that was first introduced in the late 1900s. They are a compact, bushy plant that grows to a height of 2-3 feet, with smaller leaves than the Lincoln Pea. The pods are shorter, at 2-3 inches, but are still a bright green color. The peas inside are small, sweet, and crunchy, and they are packed with flavor. Oregon Sugar Pod II Peas are a popular choice for gardeners, as they are very easy to grow and produce a high yield. They are also very versatile in the kitchen, and are most often used in salads and stir-fries, but can also be used in soups, stews, and other dishes.

Both Lincoln Peas and Oregon Sugar Pod II Peas are easy to grow and maintain, and they are ideal for gardeners of all levels of experience. They are most commonly grown from seed, and they can be planted directly in the garden or started indoors and then transplanted. They prefer a well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter, and they should be watered regularly to keep the soil moist. They also do well in full sun, but they can tolerate some shade.

If you are looking for a sweet, crunchy, and healthy addition to your garden, then consider growing Lincoln Peas or Oregon Sugar Pod II Peas.

hydroponic pea starts in kratky method barrels — More Peas!

My Day in the Greenhouse

By MinerB

On February 9, 2023

In Seed Starting, Uncategorized

I use this blog as way to keep track of times and events for reference later in the year and years to come. This Sunday afternoon was spent cleaning out the remaining unused seeding trays, making fresh seeding soil mix and seeding up 8 more trays. I have found that making your own seeding soil is not only easy but a fraction of the cost of bagged seed starting mix. There are lots of great DIY seeding mix recipes but I have found that a 3:1 or 2:1 mix of Peat Moss / Perlite does well keeping the soil moist but also keeping it draining well. I mix it with water and let it soak. The right mixture is when it clumps nicely when you ball it up in your hand but it is not drenched.

DIY seeding Soil — Making our own seeding soil

First up was our favorite heirloom tomatoes!

San Marzano
- San Marzano tomatoes are a type of Italian plum tomato known for their sweet and slightly tangy flavor, meaty texture, and low acidity. They are prized by chefs and are commonly used in Italian cuisine, especially in tomato sauces for pasta dishes. San Marzano tomatoes are long and cylindrical with a slightly pointed end and a bright red color. They are considered to be sweeter and less acidic than other varieties of plum tomatoes, and are grown in the volcanic soil near Mount Vesuvius in Italy. These make up half of the tomatoes we grow. Perfect for sauce and sun dried tomatoes!
Mariglobe
- Mariglobe tomatoes are a variety of tomato known for their juicy, sweet flavor and high sugar content. They are medium to large in size, round, and have a bright red color. They are often used for slicing and eating fresh, as well as in salads and sandwiches. Mariglobe tomatoes are known for their high yield and are often grown commercially due to their ability to withstand shipping and handling. They are also popular among home gardeners due to their relatively low maintenance and resistance to common tomato plant diseases. Mariglobe tomatoes are prized for their sweet, juicy flavor and versatility in cooking and are a popular choice for many gardeners and chefs.
Bonnie Best
- Bonnie Best tomatoes are a variety of tomato known for their high yields and delicious flavor. They are medium to large in size, round, and have a bright red color. They are popular among home gardeners for their easy-to-grow nature and resistance to common tomato plant diseases. Bonnie Best tomatoes are often used for slicing and eating fresh, as well as in salads and sandwiches. They are known for their sweet, juicy flavor and are a popular choice for those looking for a tasty tomato variety to grow in their home garden. Additionally, Bonnie Best tomatoes are highly productive and provide a steady supply of tomatoes throughout the growing season.
Sweety
- Sweety cherry tomatoes are a variety of cherry tomato known for their sweet, juicy flavor and bright yellow color. They are small in size, typically around 1 inch in diameter, and have a round shape. They are often used for snacking, in salads, and as a garnish due to their sweet taste and bright color. Sweety cherry tomatoes are popular among home gardeners and are easy to grow, producing large yields and maturing early in the season. They are also a good source of vitamins and antioxidants, making them a healthy addition to any diet. Sweety cherry tomatoes are prized for their sweet flavor, attractive color, and ease of growth, making them a popular choice for both home gardeners and commercial farmers.
Delicious
- These guys are monsters! Have had them well over 1lb! Delicious tomatoes are a variety of tomato known for their large size and sweet, juicy flavor. They are round in shape and have a bright red color, often weighing up to a pound or more. They are often used for slicing and eating fresh, as well as in salads and sandwiches. Delicious tomatoes are popular among home gardeners for their easy-to-grow nature and resistance to common tomato plant diseases. They are also prized by commercial growers for their large size and high yield.

Learn Grow Share

Category: Seed Starting

Trying New Method for Transplanting Tomato Seedlings!

“Lettuce” Do A Little More Everyday!

Parris Island Lettuce

Tom Thumb Lettuce

Red Salad Bowl Lettuce

Heritage Iceberg Lettuce

Black Seeded Simpson Lettuce

February 15th, an Afternoon in the Greenhouse

Our New Seeding Trays Arrived

First Try At Hydroponic Peas!

My Day in the Greenhouse