Start Your Seeds Outside in WINTER With This Method (winter sowing)

[@samartinez1988]

As an amazon delivery driver I get to see a lot of gardens. I saw a family doing this just last week.

[@jessicainhofe703]

Luckily for you you have permission to be there, I have to just creep by slowly in my car, if I want to peep someone's garden. 🤣

[@christyj24]

Thank you for your service! I've been doing PVD driver for UPS and it is rewarding to see the happy people.

[@arcatawillis9431]

What's the coolest garden thing you've seen?

[@catnip1487]

@@arcatawillis9431 probably snow and ice... :3

[@samartinez1988]

@@arcatawillis9431 so far I've been the most entertained by a gnome collection in someone's garden. They even had a biker gnome lol

[@michelewestover9330]

On Roots and Refuge, she used the lid as the base, placed a soil bag down laying it flat on the lid and cut the top out of the bag but leaving the edges intact to contain the soil. She planted her seeds and then placed the container over top the entire thing. I learn so much from you Luke! Thank you!! 😊

[@g.peterson8894]

I saw that R&R video, and have wanted to try it ever since then.

[@g.peterson8894]

Using a plastic bin as s mini greenhouse, I mean.

[@JRNurse2013]

I forgot about that! I saw that too!

[@melissakalber2185]

Yes I saw Jess do that on roots an refuge too. It's a great idea.

[@sbrowny130]

@@g.peterson8894 she also put the whole bag of soil in it. She also said now she can move it around, won't be moving plants to a garden. 😊

[@carissa7434]

Whooooaaa! Pop bottles and milk jugs areGREAT. Who cares how they look! They work wonderful AND you are up cycling! There is no downside! Line them up tidy if you must but don’t let what your neighbors think stop you from trying this method! When they see you gardening without worrying about hardening off or even watering (provided it doesn’t get too dry) they’ll want to try it too! Lazy gardeners unite! Get those milk jugs and put them to work!

[@mekhimkl2702]

In my city we have a rather predatory code violation organization. Some of us have to be careful in order to avoid legal and financial battles with hostile government structures.

[@12thsonofisrael]

Miserable friends are those who will judge you based upon the appearance of your property; and when they have an occasion for the need for food, the elitist will be glad to see you growing food in anyway possible.

[@NMW80]

Amen I have milk cartons and other bottles all over my yard growing all sorts of things lol

[@gaylestegall7239]

I put them where no one sees them. 😂

[@chickadeetle]

@@mekhimkl2702Government , small people with a bit of power, doesn't want you to be self-sufficient. Wants you to depend on them for everything.

[@sharonousmankobo3602]

2021 is my 2nd year of winter sowing and it was very successful! My first year I did less than 20 milk jugs of vegetables only. However, in 2021 I winter sowed about 87 gallon sized milk jugs of vegetables, flowers, fruit and herbs. I winter sowed tomatoes, peppers just about everything! Every grew successfully. I never had to water or fertilize them. The snow and rain watered them and nature did the rest. You must use a good organic potting soil. They work like mini greenhouses. They all transplanted and produced perfectly. Virginia zone 7a.

[@kimmchenry4383]

What month did you start showing the veggies? I'm in zone 7b SC, I was thinking of starting them now just didn't know what to plant

[@heathermcnichols4097]

Oooo 7a here too!(ky) when did you do peppers and tomatoes?

[@hobbitlady7568]

Same here. It is really helping me to fill in my garden for VERY cheap.

[@lovingsunshine3515]

What brand of potting soil did you use?

[@sharonousmankobo3602]

@@lovingsunshine3515 I only use Happy Frog organic potting soil.

[@sandyp9891]

The best lettuce bed I ever had happened years ago purely by accident when I first started gardening. After the seeds didn't germinate well (due to my mishandling and inexperience), I tossed everything into a huge flower pot that had old soil in it buried under leaves. When I moved my plastic boxes off of some other plants, I put two of the broken ones upside down on top of the lettuce scraps in the old pot intending to toss everything out later. You know what happened. The old, ugly pot was full of several types of beautiful lettuce within weeks and we ate off of it for quite a while.

[@theurbanthirdhomestead]

I LOVE volunteers!!! 🥰

[@robm328]

Long time ago, my Dad had bought a tractor from a vegetable farmer. When he went to pick it up, he noticed that in early February the farmer was out with a seeder planting something . the farmer explained that they planted spinach this way and got a couple of weeks head start on the market. They particularly liked when they could plant through the snow. As the snow melted, the seeds would sink into the soil.

[@theurbanthirdhomestead]

This is how I do everything. Lol. I'm not a digger.

[@GoodVibesNewlevel2023]

This is the first video that I have seen with someone planting in snow. Many people live in the Midwest and further North who are interested in growing at home, but channels feature people who live in the warmer parts of the country. This really encouraged me! Thank you for your thoughtfulness. I am a new follower 😀💯

[@dustyflats3832]

Yes, I particularly look for vids for Zone 5 as southern gardening is a whole different game. Gardener Scott is another great YT.

[@Wendy-st4il]

Being in zone 1b it’s hard to find videos that are even close to my growing zone. 😂

[@42Grammy]

I do this every year. I use the milk jugs. I also plant tomatoes and peppers in February. Last year my winter sown tomato plants out performed the greenhouse plants. My winter-sown plants were smaller but sturdier when I transplanted them. Then they took off and became my garden rock stars.

[@vineyardchickshomestead]

42Grammy We lost our greenhouse tomatoes last year because power went out in the green house couple with a last spring chill. How cold does it get by you and when did you start your outdoor tomatoes in jugs?

[@RiaWallace]

@@vineyardchickshomestead It doesn't matter how cold it is. While the seeds are in the WS container or within the NTWS method such as the clear tote, they will germinate and start growing when they are ready.

[@vineyardchickshomestead]

Ria Wallace Thank you!! We are going to give this a try!

[@42Grammy]

@@vineyardchickshomestead I live in north central Ohio. Zone 6. Some nights are sub zero. I usually start my winter sowing mid February. Doesn’t seem to matter when I start them. The seeds will sprout when warm enough and the jugs act as mini greenhouses.

[@vineyardchickshomestead]

42Grammy Thank you! We are zone 6 too! We are already looking for containers.

[@amberpuckette1670]

2nd year of winter sowing here in 7b. And I love it, gives me a jumpstart on starts and economical to! I do agree that it can be aesthetically unpleasant to the eye but, #1 my yard is semiprivate. #2 my neighbors have no buisness being back there.

[@janetaylor4946]

Third year of WINTER SOWING! I use mostly milk jugs and put them in the back yard. Am still experimenting. I love to see people using pop bottles, milk jugs, etc. They are gardening. Hooray for them!

[@suejarrard2221]

I love how you are giving more growing options and ideas to those that may not have extra space in their homes. Thank you for continuing to educate and inspire more growing. Blessings

[@imlostinmyhead]

I've been winter sowing for years. I'm so glad to see you made a video for those who don't know about this great method.

[@U.S.-Lobo]

It's the best! Really like these containers he found!

[@U.S.-Lobo]

@@james_thegirl , have any that you can recommend & are cheap? I'm still in the milk jug era.

[@normaphillips3290]

@@james_thegirl 0

[@mimirutler2374]

Winter sowing is the best! I've been doing it for years. The plants outperform the hothouse plants. I love Migardener, but he doesnt really know what he's talking about this time.

[@skittles9970]

I have been winter sowing for a couple of years now. This will be my third year. It is amazing!

[@colletteringie1142]

Thanks for another video. For us one of the great reasons to winter sow is to grow perennial flowers without worrying about cold treating the seeds. Our neighbors are more interested about what is in the milk jugs then they are interested in judging us, especially remembering the produce baskets they get in the summer. Love your channel and love your seeds.

[@authentichomestead]

May I say, I've been watching your channel for a while now, because I wanted to learn how to be better in the garden. Out of all the gardening channels I do watch, yours is by far one of the best educational channels, where you make it easy to understand, provide alternative options, while having fun in the garden. Thanks for all you do for the gardening world, Luke! ~ Laurie

[@sadie21962]

I agree. I've been gardening for 40 years and I still learn something from every video.

[@robinwhitlatch4497]

The Rusted Gardner channel is another real good one as well. Very educational content and economically sound ideas. Also Maritime Gardening channel is another one, knowledgeable and economical gardening.

[@Ninabeana13]

I found this channel through 2 other really good channels, The Rusted Gardener and The Gardening Channel with James Prigioni

[@jessicalowry6262]

I always start my seeds outside using milk jugs and empty soda bottles. Best and easiest way to start seeds IMO.

[@Jazzylish1]

Right now I have kale and eggplants under grow lights in my kitchen; pepper seeds germinating on a heat mat and a few milk jugs outside that I've prepared using the winter sowing method. The milk jugs are buried under about a foot of snow. This is my second year gardening and my first using the winter sowing method. I just learned that in addition to flower seeds, vegetables can be started using this method. So I plan on adding a few more milk jugs with tomato and perhaps lettuce seeds to see how it turns out. I don't find it to be unsightly as they are lined up against the back of my house, I may even corral them using milk crates that I have on hand. From watching videos of others it looks like a fun, easy method of growing; and opening the jugs in the spring is akin to opening a gift on Christmas day. I'm very excited about this year's garden.

[@Karen19820]

Yes, my Mother who was also my neighbor and has had a beautiful garden for years and years could not take my toilet paper roll seed starts and milk jugs, water or clear 2 liter pop bottles. She died of COVID fully vaccinated in August at 84 and before that appreciated my change to clear Sterilite boxes much better. I am so thankful you are sharing this with everyone as an alternative winter sowing hack. Great video! ⭐️

[@theurbanthirdhomestead]

I'm so sorry about your mom. 😞 What a tribute to her that you've beautified your process. ❤

[@jimizxztheorginal]

I love how ur just chillin in the same clothes I wear when it's 70°f... y'all are crazy in Michigan

[@umiluv]

Right??? I’m from Cali and 50F is super cold for us hahaha.

[@angelaj7085]

Lol we are use to the cold, if its 70 we are wearing shorts because that's warm here. If it gets in the 90s we feel like we are going to die from heat stroke. Most of the winter I have the thermostat set between 68-70. And that's comfortable.

[@andielliott2306]

@@angelaj7085 And I'm in short sleeves if it is in the 50's here in Eastern Idaho. Today is a beautiful day...not coat needed. 31 degrees. LOL

[@jessicacanfield5408]

@@andielliott2306 WOW that is crazy.

[@angelaj7085]

@@andielliott2306 yes! We had been doing good between 24 and 31 and I have been hanging outside without a coat. Enjoying the warmth of the sun. Except one day when wind chill was a bit too much. It's a really warm 45° day here in Michigan today. I'm ready to lay in the sun...lol

[@Flanuora]

This is exactly what I needed for planting my sunflowers 🌻 outside and keep the animals off! Thank you

[@RiaWallace]

Thank you Luke for sharing this. I have done this method for years. My plants have always been heartier. Stronger. Totes are a great suggestion. Sheryl Mann calls that NTWS. No Transplant Winter Sowing. She has been highly successful for many years.

[@healingathome8471]

I tried the inverted plastic storage tote because I didn’t have the money or skills to build something over my planter box and it totally worked! They’ve also survived 2 snows so far because of the “greenhouse.”

[@ohioladybug7390]

I love your philosophy on garden etiquette outside and that you shared your view so that others may take note of something they didn’t think about. I love passionate gardeners but not always their choice of containers.

[@jujube2407]

I'll be happy to use whatever you want if you aremy neighbor and want to buy it for me! Other wise my 5 gallon jugs work just fine! I had a neighbor once call housing and complain about our yard... and our "pots" everywhere.... yeah housing came and looked knocked on their door and asked what the issue was... they didn't like the orange pots we had in our back yard... they were on clearance...and actual legit pots... for 1.00... id love to have another color... but blue was 10 to 15 each... orange was 1.00 we got orange...she was mad over a color... it was all neat and tidy...well kept etc... they were on nice wooden stands... im under the opinion... someone will always be mad... ps I've also found sharing produce with neighbors is a surefire way to make them ok with your plants!

[@babyroot3479]

I literally just placed an order with you! I ordered various onion seeds and I'm going to winter sow them in water jugs and place them in the back yard. I'm excited to give it a try. I watched several good videos on doing this. Thanks Luke for another great video 👍

[@catherinebennet]

I winter sown onions last year. Worked out nicely!

[@babyroot3479]

@@catherinebennet I heard great results with this method.

[@lepidlover0557]

Instead of using a bunch of plastic bottles to start my seeds during the winter, I just use a clear tote with a clear lid to put all my seed starting cells and containers in and have it sitting on a table in my backyard with all my potted plants. It's more tidy imo than a lot of plastic bottles and jugs. Plus, it helps me save soil

[@gaylucido-willsher1143]

I do this too. I use the seed starting tray outside.

[@GardenMinistry.]

That's what I am doing this year! I tried using plastic water jugs last year, and although it technically worked, it was hard scooping out individual seedlings so it was a mess. This year I bought a huge container tote that acts as a greenhouse for all my seedlings that are in seed starting containers, all organized and easy to pull out in the spring. Good luck guys!!

[@GardenJensJourney]

I have tried this method and it epically failed. The cell packs dried out too fast or molded because the large space couldn't keep things consistent. I use gallon water and milk jugs. Have for several years with no problems. They are honestly very easy to transplant. I have done videos on it for a gardening group I had belonged to for years.

[@rainspringing]

@@GardenJensJourney This. :( Drying out too fast, and getting odd mold. I hate the way the plastic items look trashy to others, but it's really the most dependable, and least fussy. I'm sure my neighbors hate seeing it every year, but I only grow veggies really, so my container amount is limited and corralled. I miss having a garden that isn't the equivalent of a fishbowl to people in the neighborhood. Honestly I like how the soda bottles glow and sparkle with rain, light...and potential! They also hold up better in our fall/spring, or hot dark summer storage. I don't use many milk jugs sold here because they shatter so often in any sunlight, their labels are harder to remove, and they don't last more than one season.

[@lepidlover0557]

Oh, and i dont drill any holes since there will already be small gaps between the lid and the container and plus it retains humidity

[@mackenzieholtog4866]

I use the clear plastic totes this way even in a mild California winter climate. I find it speeds up germination significantly and offers great pest protection for my little plant babies.

[@prabhdeol8098]

I haven’t even heard of this before! I thought indoor sowing was the only option. Thanks Luke!

[@The-Merchandise]

I been doing it for better than a decade now. So easy. Mostly set and forget.

[@noem177]

There's a winter sowing Facebook group.

[@saraquigley5414]

Honestly, I’d mostly ignore Luke’s suggestions here and look up Winter Sowing techniques elsewhere. I’ve done a LOT of research on the subject and contrary to his statements, the starts are not late, it’s not an untidy method, and you never leave the caps on bottles because that’s how the seeds get moisture. Also, eggplants, tomatoes, and any seed really works fantastic! I know he means well, but because he doesn’t seem to have used this method, it’s not his strong area of expertise. Good luck- it works fabulously!

[@gwengeiss104]

love the idea... does it matter how much snow is underneath or if you are transitioning from front yard grass to front yard garden?

[@tuckerfamilyhomestead880]

It’s so awesome! We start almost all our seeds this way!

[@clarkl4177]

You blessed me ❤️ So much wisdom in here --NOT Just the methods, but the recognition that we don't ALL have indoor space 🤗 You are thoughtful!

[@rebecaorsi554]

I started WS for my hardy flowers on December 25. Now I am working on my herbs and hardy greens . And in March I will WS on my tenders veggies. Zone 7a .

[@carolliska]

Do you do tender plants 1 month before your last frost? I'm trying to find information about this, I'm doing this WS for the first time. South Jordan, UT zone 7a

[@amerrykai]

Winter sowing requires no shelves, heat mats or grow lights. The only monetary investment is soil, seeds, duct tape and something sharp to cut containers and drainage holes. After the initial watering when planting seeds, no further watering is required until plants have grown a bit and containers feel light (unless you live in a very hot, arid zone.) Seeds come up at the proper time when conditions are right for them to germinate and plants are hardier requiring no period of hardening off. Any seed can be started this way, including tomatoes. So glad you addressed this Luke! For me it's the easiest method for starting plants for my garden.

[@amerrykai]

Thanks for finally doing this video Luke. There are a ton of KZbin channels dedicated to this method if anyone wants more detailed information.

[@jamesniebel4843]

I’ve been doing this for years. But doing it with peas, potatoes, Lettuce, onions, kale, just about any seed you want to plant.

[@titsrule]

So you put potatoes outside in freezing temperature ?? I've always been told potatoes will rot if they receive any freezing temps..my seed place wont even mail them to me until the temps allow...thank you for the info, I'm gonna try this out this year👍

[@scottwhite4645]

HARVESTER OF SORROWS Potatoes will be a stretch, if you’re going to use a milk jug, you won’t have enough soils to support tuber growth. Luke’s spin will lead to rotten potatoes, soil will be too wet or too cold. Carrots and beets will have the same issues too. They have a large tap root which can’t be disturbed too much which is why you don’t hear about transplanting them.

[@jessicacanfield5408]

Where do you get potato seeds. I live in Virginia in the country and all I see is sets

[@northwoodsmama4973]

This is fascinating, because I was wondering about this for a long while, and wanting to do a good portion of my garden this way (garlic growing got me going on this as well as tomatoes and bok choy volunteers). A great subject given the world we are living in.

[@michellelee2149]

Never done this before, but definitely will within the next few weeks. I don't have a lot of room inside for grow lights, but have some seeds for plants that I can't find as starts where I live. Thank you, Lucas! You rock.

[@CorolaImperial]

Snow makes the background and the whole frame perfect

[@AAHomeGardening]

Looks beautiful indeed

[@danatompson4658]

I agree the bins look more tidy! You forgot to mention how the seedlings are being watered (oops) For gardeners new to winters sowing: please remember to put holes in the top of your plastic bin or go out to water your seedlings. If you have milk and soda jugs and no HOA preventing you from reusing them, I do encourage that as well. Just leave the cap off and you’re good to go. Gardening has so much plastic already, that any way I can find to use less or reuse what I already made is really something I try to do. Happy Gardening!!

[@epiphanysnow5282]

I'm glad you said that. I was wondering about the cap on or off. Doesn't it lose heat with the cap off?

[@rainspringing]

@@epiphanysnow5282 Not enough heat loss to change sprouting times really. More importantly, cap off means very little to no maintenance on watering until close to planting out time, and does the job of ventilation.

[@gardenlady58]

i have been winter sowing spring crops and perennials for 3 years. Last year, after reading about it in a facebook group, I tried tomato seeds and they worked. I was surprised.

[@diannerobertson4357]

I learned a new method of winter sowing on top of the snow. I have snow on the beds right now I’ll give it a try. Thanks for the idea.

[@singncarpenter6270]

I am having great success with MI gardener seeds. I'm in the central Texas area. I started 6 varieties of peppers indoors last week and germination rates are impressive. I planted 6 types of heirloom tomato seeds from Luke's store yesterday. His seed packets are resealable which I find nice and the price of his seeds are the best I have found. Get your seeds now folks. Don't wait. Thanks Luke for the great seeds and great selection.

[@heidiandbretz9867]

The seed prices and free shipping are unbeatable! I cannot find anywhere else that sells heirloom and organic seeds for this price! I think I bought almost $100 worth this year. Probably the same amount last year too. Thank you Luke!

[@Vulcanfire01]

I have been using a large clear bin to help some winter purslane seedlings slowly grow over winter. Zone 6. The seedlings under the bin are about 3x the size of the ones outside the bin. I'll give winter bin germination a shot.

[@ElderandOakFarm]

I also think it's awesome you have kept your price if seeds so low over the years! It's very helpful!

[@ThatgirlinSeattle]

I actually use the clear container method myself, not for “winter sowing” but to give my early veg crop seedlings a few weeks head start. One crucial step though is to drill several holes in the top for ventilation and to let moisture in as rain. I would recommend a brick if you live in an area with wind, but I live in a pretty un-windy area so I don’t weigh them down at all. Of course, anything you put on them will diminish the amount of light inside your mini “greenhouse” so the less you can put on top, the better,

[@The-Merchandise]

Yes definitely wall the containers together tight with bricks around the bottom. Had an awesome winter sown season going on a couple years ago.. the plants were doing fantastic and then one super windy day ruined everything.. 60-some gallon prepped jugs blew all over the yard and destroyed 80% of very healthy plants. I was so angry I didn’t anchor the crop down. Now I wall the group in with bricks around the bottom and even put a blanket over them when I knew it was going to be windy to keep everything in place,

[@lepidlover0557]

@@The-Merchandise I ran out earlier tonight and moved my winter sowing tote because of all the wind that was blowing. Lol I'd be so angry if that happened to me. My tote isn't filled enough for me to feel comfortable just leaving it easily exposed to the wind and at risk if being blown around.

[@rainspringing]

I've always lived where the containers need corralling. Things that let light in around the soil work best, like a raised bed with soil level post fall harvest drop, if you have enough containers to fill the bed so they are 6 or so inches down and wedged in together. (Bonus, less neighbor visibility.) Tall containers may need to be sort of tied together at the tops so wind can't catch one and yank it free of the mass. Other things have been useful: old deep freezer wire baskets, boxy plant supports (anchor really well), garden chairs with tied twine around the legs, etc. In a pinch I've stuck sticks as far down as possible in a raised bed, where the soil really hadn't dropped enough, and wrapped twine around all the containers to make a big heavy mass.

[@brg2743]

I have learned so much from your channel. Am trying to grow tomatoes in milk jugs inside a breezeway and can't wait to see the results! Will still probably have to harden them off, but pulling plants inside and out daily is a lot.

[@megreilly1193]

Me, a New Englander: "The heck is a POP bottle?!"

[@michellerose6721]

Me, a New Yorker: A "POP" bottle is a "SODA" bottle in New England. Lol.... Had a horrible time ordering a "pop" in Massachusetts as a kid!

[@kdwhineygirl5551]

@@michellerose6721 We're "soda" here in Missouri! :-)

[@vineyardchickshomestead]

M. Reilly I'm good with Soda, Pop, or even soda-pop! Ever been to Georgia? It's all coke. Yes...there's Pepsi cokes, Mountain Dew cokes and root beer cokes too. Fun!

[@scottwhite4645]

😆 as they say, “ if ya gotta ask”..

[@bellemarie34]

🤣

[@DawnieGTheBeekeeper]

I get volunteer cherry tomatoes every year. It is such a joy.

[@joanies6778]

I got one just outside my compost bin this past year, a late starter that actually produced a few tomatoes at the end. What's funny is I accidentally planted all cherry tomatoes but thought they were half med size tomatoes. When that little jewel popped up, I was ecstatic. 🍅

[@DawnieGTheBeekeeper]

@@joanies6778 they are little jewels

[@erichimes3062]

Yoda: “Luke! Start seeds in the winter you will!” Luke: “I dunno, I’ll try.” Yoda: “Do, or do not. There is no ‘try’!”

[@jessicacanfield5408]

Hahaha

[@b.5191]

Plant the seeds and head off to Cloud City

[@barbnull1397]

I must admit..i am a master gardener and have never heard of this method. I will be trying it this year.

[@mcfkennelly]

What a great seed starting method for anyone who preemptively knows they will be super busy during the weeks they would normally be starting seeds in doors. Thanks for sharing!

[@angelalowe5987]

I love winter sowing and it is how I got started in gardening. Thanks for sharing so it can help others to get started.

[@faithfamilyhomestead]

I just started winter sowing for the first time this year. So far so good

[@joanies6778]

Awesome. I am building a cold frame with a window over a pallet I used last year to plant brassicas in that this will work perfectly in... I usually wait for transplanting because we get a late hail storm weeks after our last frost date. Between the cold frame covers and using some Dollar Store clear tubs, I should be able to get a nice early start. For a plastic bin I would HAVE to weigh it down with a brick because of high winds, but that brick can also be a prop to ventillate when needed. Thank you!

[@jessicacerchiara7620]

Thank you for being unique and posting a different method!! I’ve been itching to get started. This is perfect

[@lepidlover0557]

I was wondering if you were ever gonna try this but never voiced it lol. Well, now my questions been answered!

[@theanimalsmagicshop4785]

Like this a lot - eliminates a ton of steps and expense. Thank you!

[@carissa7434]

I love winter sowing and am so glad to see this today! 😻

[@catherinebennet]

I have winter sown for 10 years. A few misconceptions. We don’t water the soil when we plant either. When the plants come up we water if the soil gets dry, but from the bottom up. The lid to the jug isn’t left on either. And I do everything. Including tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, etc. I rarely lose a plant with transplanting. The soil/plant comes out easily for transplant. No different than purchasing a plant at Walmart. I’ve done the grow lights and greenhouse thing. This method is much easier and costs almost nothing.

[@litaanderson1589]

That’s great, may i ask what zone are you. I think it is mostly use for cooler crops.

[@catherinebennet]

@@litaanderson1589 I’m in zone 5b. I do my tomatoes and peppers no problem. I don’t do as many spring crops as you think. They get warm and tend to bolt quickly if I’m not paying attention. So once I get 2 leaves in the jug for those I plant them, unlike my melons, tomatoes etc., that I plant when they are starting to outgrow the jug

[@tkaart2242]

I love you said, "Pop Bottles." I know you are a Northerner when you say that. Everything in the South is soda or a Coke. Great video.

[@kitkatkrissy]

Midwesterners say "pop" instead of soda. I am from Chicago and have said it all my life. I have friends in New York and Pennsylvania that strictly say "soda" and make fun of me saying "pop"! ;-)

[@countryroads190]

Well, I think it's cool that Luke brings winter sowing up for those to whom it hasn't occurred. I'm experimenting with winter sowing some sugar snap peas, and soon will follow with beets and carrots. I am doing it in containers, covering with chicken wire, and trusting the seeds to come up when it's time. I hope to finally have a full spring of snap peas - usually I plant them way too late.

[@lepidlover0557]

You'll need a transparent container to put over your pots... I dont think chicken wire will keep your plants warm and help defend them from frost damage....

[@JesusIsLoveTR]

I have 8 raised beds of varying sizes and shapes that are fully irrigated and tastefully designed into my landscape thanks to the folks who we purchased our house from. I winter sowed some flower seeds via the milk jug method but you just changed my entire life with placing the bin directly onto the raised bed. 🤭😱 I am TRULY blown away and feel so silly that I would’ve created so much extra work for myself by having to transplant all of the starts. The good thing is that I haven’t started my veggies yet so I can apply this new knowledge right now! The flowers I’ve already seeded in jugs are not going in the raised beds so this just saved my gardening life this season. I am INCREDIBLY GRATEFUL for this knowledge. Blessings my friend and prayers for a happy and successful growing season for you and your subs! 🪴💕❄️

[@hs4good1]

This will be my first year winter sowing, and I do have milk jugs (free). I think if someone drives by and thinks someone's yard is a junkyard (because of milk jugs/pop bottles) then it's not because of the winter sowing. You can have a pleasant yard and keep your milk jugs not interfering with that.

[@pamduff3987]

In Canada, this is a perfect method. Since we do not drink milk, I use gallon-sized vinegar jugs. Same concept for use. Vinegar is an excellent substitute for alcohol, especially these days when alcohol is scarce.

[@rainspringing]

Those are amazing containers! Strong and hold up to anything weather can dish out.

[@buudgirrl]

Thank you luke, as someone with limited space in a trailer park in nova scotia, canada this info is extremely valuable! Can't wait to receive my seeds and trifecta plus from your store 😁

[@catfunksfabulousfinds]

I bought lots of clear totes last summer to try this. As I'm getting older the idea of not having so many plants to transplants sounds great to me.

[@jessicalowry6262]

You can and should actually do winter sowing with tomatoes and peppers. I always do and end up with hardy plants that are fantastic producers.

[@GardenJensJourney]

Yes!!

[@japhillips08]

When do you sow them for your zone?

[@jessicalowry6262]

@@japhillips08 any time. I put mine out about a week ago.

[@rdarrett3635]

I’m starting tomatoes 🍅 and peppers 🌶 this way for the first time. Another YT channel said start a month before your last frost date. I’m in zone 6B. What zone are you?

[@jessicalowry6262]

@@rdarrett3635 I'm in zone 6a. You can put them out whenever. You don't have to wait until a specific time. The seeds will know when they are ready to sprout. If you do get a late frost, you can just throw a blanket or towel over your jugs with the seedlings and they will be just fine. Hope that helps!

[@cbass2755]

Wow…I had no idea I could do this. I’m in Southeast Michigan, bought containers and tubs for spring. I’m doing this this week! Thank you!

[@courtneyevers4035]

Hi Luke, before I ask a question I want you to know that last summer I started watching your videos and they ( alongside a few others ) have changed my gardening completely! Revitalized a passion and now I am finally starting a small business. A dream ive had for 10 years and thought would never happen...... we have 7 kids and are busy, but you brought gardening “home” again for me. We’ve even watched some videos in our home school lesson! ( ok maybe those were actually for me but hey.... they learned stuff too!!) So thank you, thank you, I can’t say it enough! My question is ..... do you winter sow into the garden As an added option to starting indoors. Example: I saw Charles dowding start beets and transplant ( what?!?!?!! I have to try this) so that would give A couple weeks head start as well, but if I’d rather take up my starting cells with hot weather crops, I could do this with the frost tolerant seeds? Sorry if someone else already asked this and I missed it. Thanks again! Ps I’m 5B and in 14 inches of snow right now....ha!

[@mezenman]

I been doing jugs for years. My jugs are currently completely covered in snow as I type. We use the square water jugs. Good strong tough plants is the result.....

[@Pp7450-n5u]

Cool weather crops. THANK YOU for clarifying that! (I live in 5b)

[@SusanSmith-hl3iv]

Thanks for another great video. It’s late January and our weather has been very cold and snowy in WV. I’m eager to try this. I’d love to get a jump start on small gardening. This will be my first year. I’ve learned so much from you.

[@crushivintage]

I'm working on winter sowing right now. Trying to find some frame to staple plastic sheeting into. My garden will be beautiful someday!

[@x21gokartracing]

I've been trying to come up with an easy greenhouse to start seeds outdoors This presented an excellent idea for a seed trays in large tote as a greenhouse. Thank you

[@leahathome2883]

I've winter sowed with success in my urban backyard. Now I live in the country and the wind has taken all my attempts for the past two years. Hopefully this year I can keep them with the help of bricks and watching the weather forecast.

[@dustyflats3832]

I am Sooo excited about WS!! It works, it will save me room, money, time and NO LEGGY plants! I no longer will be babysitting seedlings and they will be hardened off. I was so happy to see brassicas and they were not leggy. I did throw those jugs that sprouted in the greenhouse and if I didn't I would cover them at night because we are getting freak snow and 19° at night. This is a game changer for me!! Love it!!

[@kevinw8485]

You make me smile and I always enjoy your episodes about gardening. I have managed to keep my spinach over the winter so far in the Interior BC keeping an eye on the temperature and covering.

[@cherigreen4471]

I love this! My children are grown and I don’t have big milk jugs, so this is a great idea for me! ❤

[@justinfowler6325]

Whether its new seeds or new gardening tips, i can always count on you Luke. And of course the rest of the team at MIGardener😁 Thanks so much!

[@MIgardener]

thanks for your support Justin!

[@CatsMeow14]

I totally agree with the aesthetic. But, for the simple reason that I don't like my own yard looking messy. A beautiful garden is a well-loved garden!

[@mollypitcher9380]

Ooooo…..I have wintersowed for years…..I will do this tomorrow! I will do this in my black eyed Susan patch to build it up ….also build up my butterfly weed patch….I have individual plants scattered and I now want to encourage more groups of plants…. This is THE WAY to do it!!! I’m so excited!!!! I have to think where else I’m going to use this method…again, the ground is frozen so I’ll just sprinkle soil on top and just do what you did…I know it’s going to work because this is winter sowing on a grander level!!!! THANKS!

[@debbiesirota8284]

Been winter sowing following the website wintersown.org process for my raised beds for several years I do spring sowing as well from Zone 3. Very happy with the outcome but I leave the bottle caps off. Never had a issue removing tender plants from containers !!! Your seeds work great in winter sowing - many beautiful flowers 🌺 perennial annuals

[@yes350yes]

Winter sowing with milk jugs is a time honored method as most people have those on hand and who cares what you do. In saying that there is no wrong way . But what was shown here requires a little extra as there is no inlet for moisture so you would have to add moisture from time to time. With the milk jug method let nature do the work.

[@sarahkibbe2016]

I appreciate that you explain things in a way that anyone can understand what you're saying! I have watched others who speak in such a way that you almost need a degree to get it. Thank you. I love that you have videos on how to grow each type of pant! That is such a help. Last year was my first year of serious gardening. It has been a journey already. Many mistakes many victories but I have become very passionate about it. You have truly helped it feel like I can accomplish a prosperous garden. Thank you for making gardening fun and understandable.

[@tinamerrill2484]

I never understood what winter sowing was. Now, thanks to you and this fantastic video, I do. Im super excited to give it a try!

[@patbarnitz4631]

I've done this before...used bigger tote...works really well

[@Coccinelf]

I did some late summer/early autumn sowing last year. I figured that was the way annual plants spread in nature. I can't wait to see if it will work or not!

[@sandrainontario6710]

You can definitely do tomatoes with the pop bottle method. I had some really strong winds come up that way last year

[@waryr11711]

I'm doing this on my porch right now :) Only im using totes with a clear tote over the other totes to form mini greenhouses :) current temp 27 F 16 F with wind-chill

[@tinamagdaleena]

I am trying that this year too!

[@scottwhite4645]

Michelle, If your clear tote is large enough, buy a 1cu.ft. bag of potting mix and cut it open down the middle of the entire bag. Fluff the soil and sow your seeds. Place clear tote over the top and you’re ready to go!

[@waryr11711]

@@scottwhite4645 yes the bottom totes are 3/4 full of potting mix, raised bed soil, compost and some fertilizer. And I am using the clear totes over the solid colored totes as a cap like a greenhouse if I can i'll take pics tom its dark now. 1 of the totes is missing its top though. It blew away in that bad windstorm we had so someone got a free tote grrrrr LOL I'm using clear greenhouse plastic my hubby got at the nursery he works at to cover that one. Last I chked the plants were still green in them and had 1 flower in my wildflower group blooming a peachish color pansy type bloom. Only prob was that wildflower bunch was suppose to be all blue flowers LOL

[@Thankful_.]

I’m trying your method NOW!! In years prior I’ve always for winter sowing in ♻️ recycled clear bottles. I’m pumped to try your method! U just saved me a ton of time! Thc

[@alexandriawoolslayer8283]

You can also hybridize the methods by only using the tops of the bottles directly on the soil

[@daleservidio2034]

Thanks for clarifying winter seed sowing. I was so confused before you explained it in detail 👍

[@noem177]

I love this method. I'm on year 2. I use milk jugs. There are facebook groups for winter sowing. The dont like the other methods with soda bottles. I also bought clear totes with lids that serve as greenhouses.

[@adelineparinduri]

I have not seen that method (putting new fresh soil on snow). I might as well try just to see how it works. Thanks as always, Luke! I very much like this video.

[@l-egg-acyacres5732]

So, this had always boggled my mind, thanks for sharing !!! My ground is completely frozen, it is -20 here today. I am always amazed when I get surprise tomatoes or pumpkins ... very cool.

[@teesho3392]

Omg! Thanks Luke! I absolutely love this new idea and going to try this MUCH neater method. I have almost 200 containers and honestly its too much junk, my hubby is sick of it even though I neatly arrange them on the beds outside.

[@audreyhandy9273]

I like the method of dumping the soil on top of the snow, sowing the seeds, then placing the plastic dome on top. Question: should I drill holes on top of the dome for ventilation?

[@mookiejud]

Do you need to have holes cut into top of container for airflow? And for watering, do you just periodically lift top and water? Thanks ! Really enjoy your videos!

[@cielrobinson]

i JUST bought a few rubbermaid bins for this!! starting some spinach and lettuce after a cold snap this coming weekend

[@themamamagicshow4943]

I ended up with 3 pinto bean sprouts by just throwing beans into the compost. I was so happy becuase I was nervous they'd be hard to germ

[@katieglauber3083]

Thank goodness, this is exactly what I need. I'm expanding my garden by a LOT but the inside of my house has no light and I do not have the money for grow lights.

[@GardenJensJourney]

This is exactly why I started doing this, several years ago. ☺️

[@michelleduysings2764]

Thank you Luke! Needed this video today as I was just looking at my seeds to figure out when to start them. You just cut out a bunch of work for me! Thank you! 🤗