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| Hi everyone, I have been reading your forums all winter and it has finally thawed enough in Albany, NY for me to set up my first 4 x 4 SFG box this weekend. The forecast is highs in the 40's and 50's with lows hovering around freezing the next week, so I was thinking it might be OK to get a jump on some of the seeds that say "plant as soon as the soil can be worked." The soil in the area of my box is thawed at least 4-5" and should thaw more this week.
I was hoping to get some advice on this timing because I have read that if you plant certain things too early you get lower yields. The Farmer's almanac website pretty much indicates planting spring crops in May in my area but I don't think this is right. I kind of already started planting but I am concerned that I'm not doing this the best way possible, so I'll tell you what I am doing and please chime in with advice! Spring 4 x 4 box:
I have squirrels and rabbits in my yard so I built a 2' high chicken wire box top to put on top. This should keep them from digging up the peas which I hear squirrels crave. I figure once the peas are 12-24" high I will need to set up my trellis and either fashion another smaller lid for the rest of the box, and/or try to repel the squirrels (I was thinking of scattering some nets of human hair). I covered the top with clear plastic for now while I wait for the floating row cover I ordered to arrive. With the weather being in the 50's I think that's cool enough not to overheat. I think that should be OK as long as I water every couple days, right? Any thoughts and help appreciated!!! |
Follow-Up Postings:
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| You may be better off removing the clear plastic. When the conditions are right, the seeds will sprout on there own. The row covers after sprouting, is probably a good idea. John |
Here is a link that might be useful: John’s Journal
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- Posted by garden_croaker (My Page) on Mon, Mar 16, 09 at 18:40
| I'd keep the plastic on during the day and gather the sides up for air circulation...then overnight cover fully? The seeds probably need some moisture, but not a soaking wet? Get too wet and cold and they will damp off? Not sure. I started lettuce last year outside towards the end of April in zone 5. Found a packet of Mesclun Gormet Greens Mixture seeds (Ferry-Morse)...an assortment of kale...lettuces...endive...arugula. Last year I was eating lettuce like a rabbit...this year the rabbit goes to Paris on vacation. ;-) |
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