With spring approaching, it is time to prepare for early season plantings. Many native plant seeds can be sown directly into the ground in spring or fall, depending on their germination needs. Native plantings have other advantages as well. If you choose appropriate conditions—different plants will thrive in sunny vs. partially or fully shaded and dry vs. wet areas—many native plants will require less upkeep as they grow. Appropriately placed native plantings can also help reduce wet spots where mosquitoes can breed and attract beneficial and beautiful insects, like butterflies. For a guide to some native plants that will support pollinators and add interest to your yard, click here.

Some more highly cultivated vegetable plants may be more sensitive to cold. You can sprout these indoors and plant the seedlings outside in your garden beds (or larger pots) when the threat of freeze has passed. It is best to plant seeds in small individual containers or compartments so that the roots of the plants do not tangle. An egg container with small holes poked in the bottom of the compartments for drainage is an ideal, cheap, and easy option. You can cover your container with clear plastic to help retain moisture and heat, but be careful to allow some air circulation to avoid oversaturation or mold. Start seeds in compost or a commercial potting mixture labeled peat-free. Peat moss, a key ingredient in many commercial potting mixtures, is harvested from peatlands to the detriment of local ecosystems, reducing their carbon sequestering capacity and accelerating climate change. You can buy compost and backyard compost bins from the city. For details, see https://www.collegeparkmd.gov/compost.

After planting your seeds in their individual compartments and watering them, choose a place for your container(s) where they will receive light and will not be disturbed by children or pets. A south-facing window sill is ideal. Keep the seeds above 60 degrees Fahrenheit, do not allow the growing medium to dry out, and wait for your seeds to sprout. Note that different plants have different germination requirements. Some may need a cold dry or cold wet period before they will sprout. Be sure to follow the specific procedures appropriate to your plants.

On a final note, be aware that the USDA hardiness zones (areas with appropriate average temperatures for specific plant species) have shifted. With rising average temperatures, some plants that used to grow well in our area may not be able to survive the hot summers anymore. Be mindful of this shift when choosing plants for your garden.