How to Know When to Plant Seeds

Overview

Flower and vegetable seeds do best when planted at the proper time under good growing conditions. Planting zones, weather, temperature and soil conditions all play into the successful germination process of a seed. A new or seasoned gardener must pay attention to the needs of each type of seed. Garden soil that is too cold or wet early in the season will stall growth or cause deterioration of the seed. Learn to read the growing conditions and when to plant seeds in your region of the country.

Step 1

Read the packet that the particular kind of vegetable, fruit or flower seeds was stored in. There should be instructions on when to plant the seeds.

Step 2

Check to make sure that the garden is free of frost, standing water and any remnants of snow. Take a temperature reading with a garden or compost thermometer. The ground temperature should match the instructions on the seed packet, if available.

Step 3

Look up the USDA hardiness zone region maps and charts for your area at garden.org to learn the specific growing zone your garden is in.

Step 4

Plant indoor seeds according to package directions. This can usually be done 6 weeks or so before the average danger of frost is past in your area.

Step 5

Call your local county extension office if you need further help to determine when to plant your garden seeds. The extension members and Master Gardeners will be attuned to the current weather and soil conditions.