We're Winter Sowing These Seeds NOW

It is mid-january, and that means we are beginning winter sowing. We are using an easy method that doesn't require too much hassle and can get you an early start to seed starting without the expensive grow light setups.
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[@Ma1ingo]

Put a coffee filter in the bottom of the jug before putting the soil in. The water will still drain but it helps to keep slugs and beetles from getting in and having a munch on your seedlings.

[@kenbrown438]

Wow , I never would have thought about this idea 💡 !!!! Thanks so much for letting me know your method !!!! I will definitely try this !!!!

[@rootinaj]

Cool idea thank you

[@jenniferalmeida2824]

Just as effective as a coffee filter is a piece of paper towel, but less expensive.

[@Ma1ingo]

True! I use filters that have already been used for coffee though and don't buy paper towels :) @@jenniferalmeida2824

[@littlecountrykitchen]

Coffee filter, wonderful idea! I just did a video on my winter sowing too! ❤

[@holochar5662]

I JUST got done cleaning all of my jugs to start my winter sowing before you posted this video, and hubby asked what I was doing (and if I was starting seeds too soon, etc). Convenient timing for this post because a few minutes after our conversation I pulled up this video and said, “Luke says it’s okay”. 😂

[@jackstone4291]

Love it!

[@Jillany]

😆👍... 🙏💪🌱🥰

[@kerribarrientos8902]

My hubby just does not get it, no matter how many years go through it. My saved plastic jugs he tosses garb day, unless my face present, right in his. Later still disappears. OCD I swear. Dear Abby: is this grounds for divorce?

[@jackstone4291]

I’ve actually called a divorce lawyer recently and after a twenty minute conversation they agreed that it would stand a good chance on a court of law as grounds for divorce and offered to represent me pro bono. Wife - watch out !

[@jackstone4291]

Or husband

[@hollysiegel2938]

I've been winter sowing for years. It's a game changer for sure. My only advice is to also put a label inside the jug incase the weather washes away your writing on the outside 😊

[@54sks]

Be sure that you label the bottom part of the jug, not the top. Tops can get mixed up.

[@brendafaith3291]

They can for sure. That’s why I only label the jugs with an “A” on the top and the bottom, and “B” for the next jug and so on. Then I write a plant tag on a few inches of a mini blind slat and that goes inside the jug. Then I can easily reuse them from year to year.

[@lindayoung2959]

Also, Tops can blow off and get mixed up.

[@kenbrown438]

​@@brendafaith3291: great 😊 idea 💡 , thanks !!!!

[@ramonasurprenant2122]

I also label a popsicle stick INSIDE the jug, just in case🙃

[@lovelight9164]

I don't completely remove the top, cut around from one side of the handle but leave that small part attached it makes it much easier to tape after filling the jug. Good luck.

[@dougieretro8896]

Leave the hinge intact. So much easier

[@kenbrown438]

How many times can you spring the hinge !!!!????

[@dancollinsandapiano]

What benefit does the hinge offer?

[@melissaflint1785]

I winter sowed last year (2023) for the first time! It was so fun and very successful. I feel like most of the plants that I winter-sowed versus the plants that I started indoors or direct-sowed were much healthier and hardier.

[@dawnforster5340]

My daughter in law suggested using hot glue gun... without glue stick to make drainage holes. Safer than scissors, screwdriver or drill. Started the side cutting that way too.

[@nikkireigns]

I will try this, thanks!

[@melissascott5395]

Great idea!

[@hoosierpioneer]

I've used a cheap soldering iron

[@christinasmith7034]

Genius

[@taekwonmo]

I use a cheap soldering iron. I keep it just for that purpose and it works super well, too!

[@dinobernardi170]

Dang Luke just spent $100 visiting MI Gardener store last week....just watched this video and now gotta go back😊 Thank you for you and your team. Obviously your not the only crazy one. FYI... very courteous and pleasant experience at MI Gardener store...great help you have👍👍

[@wcouch8]

To mark my plants I'll use utility scissors to cut metal strips from a soda/pop can. I use a large nail to draw the seed name, source and date onto the metal strip. Pop that into the can. The ink won't fade

[@petinachambersmcvay8482]

"...the ink won't fade." 😂 Right on! Great advice. Thanks for this tip.

[@CopperIslandHomestead]

Since I'm in the UP where we have several feet of snow on the ground all winter I have leaned more toward placing mine on a deck or under the porch steps where they get sun but don't get crushed with the weight of the snow. I keep experimenting though to see where I get better germination.

[@dustyflats3832]

I’m finding the temps to swing too much in the past year and this year is steady cold since January anyways. Last year I lost a lot in full sun because it was just too warm.

[@kimrodgers5895]

I have already winter sowed about 20 milk jugs. I find this easier for me because I don't have a large enough growing space to sow under grow lights. Winter sowing gives me the ability of growing more things for the garden. Also I get to play in the dirt!😊😊

[@juliehorney995]

What seeds should not be winter sown? Thanks.

[@kimrodgers5895]

The only seeds I sow are hardy perennials or seeds that require cold stratification.

[@susang.6670]

I winter almost all my vegetables and flowers for our garden except for the things I direct sow. I have great success with tomatoes, peppers, broccoli, cabbage, and okra as well as flowers. I love winter sewing!

[@madeinussr7551]

​@@susang.6670ty So do you sow tomatoes in the jars and leave them outside? Or bring them inside? Ty

[@susang.6670]

@madeinussr7551 I put them outside as soon as I plant them. They won't sprout until it's warmer.

[@essentialcomforts2166]

I've been winter jug sowing for 6 years now and love it. I do like to put the tape on though because my kids and I love picking up the jugs to see if they are sprouted or to move them. Here in colorado I get lots of hail, so I leave my seedlings in the jugs til they are bigger when I plant out in may or june. Since they are bigger and we have very dry air, I open them gradually bit by bit over a few days and then fully open on a grey day otherwise they can sometimes dry out in just 30 minutes and be crispy critters, haha I love seeing you work in the garden....but feel free to do your jugs inside then take them outside once prepped...a bit warmer haha.

[@peggygates6565]

Glad for the input regarding different climate in Colorado. I would also place milk jugs in shaded area because of intense sun. - might need extra water and/or protection from sun or strong winds! I will add a couple pieces of duct tape to make sure top doesn't come off... 🙂

[@HealyMeans]

hi luke 🤗 ive been watching a lot of winter sowing videos using this technique. i like that you are using what you already have around the house/garden and especially that you skipped the tape. i have my eyes on a few of your new 30 seeds for your birthday release coming up. can't wait for them to go active for purchase. tfs

[@ChristyThorington-zp6dx]

I did foxglove, lupine, alyssum, snapdragons, sage and dill last year. It works!

[@dustyflats3832]

I’m so excited to see the Foxgloves this year👏🏼👏🏼

[@moodybikerchic]

I started this year here in north Carolina! I have 42 jugs so far planted and outside. I also used the natural coffee filters for slugs and other critters getting in the drainage holes.

[@hyperboreanhomestead7732]

I'm in western Wyoming, off-grid in zone 3 (ish). Wintersowing has been an absolute game changer for us getting a head start on our short season! It's a family activity getting all the jugs prepped and planted but we all look forward to it and the promise of having produce in our garden.

[@elizabethperez8818]

Hi, I have a question, what happened to the seeds or seedlings when temperatures gets to -40 s? They don’t freeze? I’m asking because I just move to Montana in zone 4 and last month we got in the -30 s. I want to try this but I’m afraid because of this negative temperatures .

[@lisamorris4232]

Thanks for the tips, Luke. I'll be winter sowing for the first time after these single digit temps pass here in W. Michigan and I can get to the spot to place the containers in the 2 feet of snow we had. Trying poppies and snapdragons, bachelor buttons along with kale, spinach, and chard. Later in March I may even dare to try beans, peppers and tomatoes. Your video came at the right time and you saved my extra step of taping by nesting the top inside the bottom half.👍🌱

[@karen15061]

Luke I love these type videos where you actually show us how to do things. I watch a lot of gardeners on KZbin but not all actually show how they actually do various tasks. Love your channel!

[@lorrigierman7089]

I love to winter sow my greens (lettuce, kale, spinach) so I can start to harvest in March.

[@katieh40077]

I can tell this was recorded RIGHT BEFORE the big storm we got. There's two ft of snow covering those jugs now. Good timing!

[@familyrussell1488]

This is my 5th year winter sowing. I love this method for all the reasons you mentioned. I have had great success and winter sow all of my vegetable, herb, and flower seeds.This is one of the best videos that I have seen about winter sowing. It really is this easy!

[@TheSeedsower107]

Have you tried strawberry seeds ? I would like to use this method for growing a new variety of berries this year. Thanks !

[@CoveredandCommitted]

Congrats on your success! Quick question: how do you water when first planting? Do you saturate the soil, or just have it damp as it would be when starting the seeds indoors? Thanks!

[@familyrussell1488]

Moisten the soil, so it is damp, like you would indoor seeds. Good luck!

[@familyrussell1488]

​@@TheSeedsower107I usually plant bare root strawberries.

[@TheSeedsower107]

@@familyrussell1488 Thanks, yes me too ! That's why I asked .

[@grekahg3938]

Starting our winter sowing with my grandkids tomorrow as we teach them gardening. They always have fun picking in the garden, now they get to see seeds and watch the process. Thanks for the tips

[@kenbrown438]

I'm really enjoying the "Garden Gospel According To Luke" !!!!

[@stephanied.1668]

I'm soooo glad you did this video. I was just told about this, but I didn't know how it worked, and now I do. I don't have much seed starting room indoors, so this will be a big help! Thank you!😊

[@sparkleflair]

I just heard of this method and now I've seen it posted on 3 different channels and social media! I'm emptying a water jug and going to start some seeds this week!

[@daisygurl3601]

I used the winter sowing method last year for the first time and it was a game changer! I am looking forward to seeing all of those seedlings coming up in the coming months. Only I’ll be sowing a lot more. It works, people! Blessings…daisy

[@C5Rose3]

Thanks you! I'd love a video or list of which plants and varieties work best for winter sowing. Like which tomatoes work, etc. Also which seeds do not work best this way. More specifics instead of generalizations.

[@meganely670]

Yes I totally agree

[@a123phi5]

My roma seed used to reseed themselves. They started late, but they caught up. Zone 4b.

[@virginiaallisonpeck2517]

I don’t think tomato’s are frost hardy look on google???

[@a123phi5]

@@virginiaallisonpeck2517 They aren't. I'm not sure if any came up before the last frost, and then died, but I used to get them every year.

[@jujube2407]

A winter sowing jug group I'm in... the leader of the group ( doing this solely for her garden 12+years) says use the best quality potting mix you can, becuase depending on "your" compost it could be to damp and not well draining for the jugs... she will recommend fox farms happy frog or Kelloggs potting mix etc for her jugs ..ONLY... take that with a grain of salt... you all know your zone and weather and your compost...but that was her personal experience and logic... saving jugs now as we speak! ❤ happy growing

[@melissaeager7993]

I've done this the last two years with successful results. Started many herbs, perennials and annual this way. ❤

[@danielgoldberg1371]

Best description I’ve seen about this and my favorite part was the dirty jeans at the end. “The point of gardening is to get dirty”, in the snow and rain no less. :-)

[@MIgardener]

You know it! Muddy and loving every minute of it.

[@butternutsquash6984]

Thank you for laying out just how simple it is. Other videos had so much extra information that it made me think there was more to winter sowing. Off to grab my jugs and soil for a snow day Project!

[@rebeccanatal1435]

Now that was a good piece of info... to sandwich the top piece into the bottom piece and let the dirt hold it in place. It eliminates the taping annoyance and the cost of buying tape! Beautiful. You just made my winter sowing a lot easier. Thanks for that handy tip!

[@PorchGardeningWithPassion]

I need to take this concept and modify it for me over the coming weeks in Zone 8a.

[@cbak1819]

Thanks Luke.. very informative.. Did you know you can starts seeds in doors or DS 4-6 weeks BFF? They will establish roots but you don't want vegetative growth to any degree. There called cool flowers. Lisa Mason Ziegler or others have great detailed info. Also you can do those methods in late winter very spring. Just like you are in jugs or containers. The plants typically mature weeks earlier, have longer stems and are just hardier. If you miss the fall window, this is a great plan C for me for seeds that do best directly sown in garden!

[@karenwagner6880]

Oh Luke Luke Luke… I’ve been winter sowing for years, and I CLEARLY remember watching one of your videos when I first started in which you DEFINITELY Pooh-poohed the entire concept of Winter Sowing! I was a bit shook at the time, because I put a lot of stock in your methods and opinions. Glad I didn’t listen then, and very glad you have seen the light when it comes to this common- sense approach!

[@sarahdunlap4421]

I have NEVER heard of this until now! You wouldn’t believe the setup we have in our basement. I think we’re about to get our basement space back. Wow!!!

[@tennesseenana4838]

This will be my third year winter sowing. Living a small house, there's no room inside for starting seeds. This is so much easier and much cheaper. Just use milk jugs, your soil and seeds and you're good to go.

[@dustyflats3832]

Hi Tennaseenana! I like the idea of tucking the top without tape now that I think about it. I’m not sure the water jugs I saved from last year will do that, but we will see. Like he used garden soil also. Big savings! I was watching Reed Timmer drive through your state late last night and looks like we all had a return to winter.

[@prettynsleepy1073]

You’re the best. Thank you

[@ericayurasko4924]

I am going to winter sow some broccoli, cauliflower, and lavender tomorrow. Maybe some other flowers to populate the bed around my vegetable garden. Thank you for the tips!

[@kittiew260]

Why is everyone rushing to get winter sowing done now? Last year I tested the same snap dragon seeds from Botanical Interest results as follows: January jug failed, February jug failed, March jug failed, but early April jug did awesome. I also tested Cole crops MI seeds like broccoli, cabbage, lettuce, and peas, all the same results. Unless you need cold stratification, don't waste your seeds.

[@CityMouseInTheCountry]

Very helpful! Thank you for sharing your results. I was considering a similar experiment

[@gardenerpete5232]

Thank you for your videos. It's nice to see I'm not the only crazy one! I'm in lower NY, Zone 7A. Last year, (Feb. 2-10 2023) I planted a 4'x10' plot with radishes, 25 varieties + 6 repeats of my favorites. I did a second plot with 31 varieties of lettuce. The radishes were incredibly Delicious!! I gave radishes and butterhead lettuce to some chefs I know, and their response was "oh my god Oh my god ..." When it got to warm for the radish, in went the herbs, tomatoes and melons. July, August the sun is so hot I put up 40% shade cloth. That was perfect for the lettuce! One variety bolted late June. The others started getting bitter late August. What a wonderful season! Last fall, I planted Radish, carrots, and turnips mid-October. They all germinated. Carrot leaves went limp mid-December. I pulled them out. Small but delicious. As of 1/14/24 radishes ok, 1 turnip starting to bulb, almost 1 1/2" diameter. I suspect longer days telling them its time to grow. I was hoping to start planting Jan 15, haven't amended/refilled the beds l with compose yet. Too busy with other things. Thanks again, GardenerPete

[@KayliePatrick]

Just put out my winter sowing jugs yesterday! Cosmos hollyhocks poppies milkweed :)

[@lilawiese2460]

I'm glad I just saw your comment because I'm hoping tomorrow, febuary 10th, isn't too late for me to do this.

[@dustyflats3832]

You should have left a hinge at the handle 😉. Maybe. Hopefully the top stays on. It would save a step to not have to tape. The WS didn’t fare very well last year and looked back on garden journal where I frequently jot down weather. I noted seeds were showing signs of swelling in February and 3 days later we had snow. The seeds must have froze as I only ended up with one of the 3 that I noted were starting to germinate. We had Very warm January last year-rain and 40s-highly unusual. Then a bit of winter showed up. I covered with cardboard to shade on the hot days and prevent too much rain entering, but it wasn’t enough. Those whiplash temps were drastic and lasted till spring and was never steadily cold with gradual warmup. The seeds either rotted or froze. I saved the containers and by leaving the hinge I’m able to string them all together. However, I could just string the lids, but don’t think the bases will stack. It’s no big deal if I do only a few and I use water jugs that are different shape. I don’t see the need to wash them because as you said that any soil can be used which is another savings. 👏🏼👏🏼 It makes sense because fall sown meadow seeds do fine. This year it Finally decided to be winter and staying steady if not down right cold so I will do a few containers up. I just dug carrots last weekend under 20” snow and mulch and hopefully i can still find unfrozen soil 😊. I did about 50 projects last year and will cut back and test out a few tomatoes, peppers and onions and compare those with indoor starts to see if there is an advantage in growth/production. I have a few flowers also, but none that need cold stratification so I can start them much later around March. I know there is no difference in starting onions early as they soon catch up and if they are out too soon they just get set back by frost. Starting seeds inside too early is a lot more work also. I did like the idea you showed last year where you planted right in the garden and covered with a clear tote with holes. That is a way many could plant if they don’t have any of the supplies or money to do so. Some have luck planting inside large totes and others fail and it has to do with moisture and heat regulation. Some have the time to babysit totes and better weather. The idea behind containers is mostly no babysitting. Z5a, WI.

[@Ichoosehappiness1]

Your video came at the perfect time! I'll be winter sowing for the first time this year. I'm actually sorting my seeds for this today. Another great video, thank you so much!

[@daisygurl3601]

You’ll love it! Blessings…daisy

[@UpstateGrammy]

At what time would you start winter sowing in Zone 4? We usually do not plant in the ground until late May. Thank you!

[@adventureswithjimandkaren2032]

can you start onion seeds this way?

[@cherylcurry2948]

I've used Melissa Norris' way of putting seeds in a big plastic container (like one you get lettuce or "homemade" bread products from Sam's) with a lid. I mass sow the whole packet in there, water and close the lid. When the seeds start to germinate I take the lid off. I've done it the past 2 years with great results.

[@kenbrown438]

I've got to watch the "scooper" video from @MiGardener !!!!

[@jacquelinewalters6811]

I tried just once & it was great. Will try again this year.

[@dianelott6849]

It's Feb 11 th, I'm going to try this in northern Michigan. I'm going to try to start broccoli, brussel sprouts, etc. 🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@rockymegan]

2 suggestions: 1st when you stab the bottom, stab from the inside out. When you stab from the outside in, the edges of the openings you make go up and the water can't drain completely - if that is your goal. To fix this sit the bottom half on the ground and put 2-3 inches of water in it. Then take the thinnest knife (fillet?) you have the and stab slits in the bottom do it quickly because the water will start draining. The water adds weight to the jug so it doesn't lift up when you pull the knife up. You may have to make more slits because less water can get out of each one. Then use a coffee filter to keep dirt from plugging the slits. 2nd suggestion put the top of the jug over the bottom then when it rains for 3 days straight no rain will get in and flood the seedlings. Great site - Love it. Oops 3rd suggestion use 2 jugs to make one you can have the bottom taller and the top longer Steve

[@sharonbrunotte3972]

I absolutely love winter sowing here in Newport Minnesota!! This will be my fourth winter!!😁

[@andicarlson5870]

Thank you for stating you are in MN. I am switching back to zone 4A after several years in 7A. I wondered if I could do the winter sowing in Northfield, MN.

[@sharonbrunotte3972]

@@andicarlson5870 yes!! Definitely!!😊

[@dustyflats3832]

In Z5a, WI last year was too warm and many either froze after germinating or rotted. I checked my notes and spotted where the whiplash weather was and it was February. I will wait another month or so this year even though winter decided to show up finally.

[@sharonbrunotte3972]

@@dustyflats3832 from my understanding, if they do germinate, then they need to be brought in!!😊

[@dustyflats3832]

@@sharonbrunotte3972 no, they can stay out, just need to cover them during freezing temps. If I brought them in they would need to be hardened off when it was time to plant. Issue was too warm of weather too early with cold snaps. The weather was so erratic last year (rain 40*F Jan) it looked like the seeds were swelling and getting ready to germinate in February and 3 days later it snowed. So many either froze or rotted. I got one plant from those 3 I took note on. In May it was so hot it advanced other trees, grapes, ect and a freak frost killed many because they were too advanced in growth. It’s getting tricky to garden in my area for sure.

[@joanncase]

I always appreciate your videos & will keep coming back. Thank you for sharing all of your knowledge to help us ‘grow bigger’!

[@RebeccaEnsz]

Love winter sowing! It's so cold here I have to wait until it warms up my potting soil to get the jugs ready.

[@taracriste1]

I've jugged 😂 all my brassicas, they are ready to go. I'll be starting a couple others as soon as more 1 gal jugs become available. It's just feels great to get dirt on my hands in the winter! I love this ❤

[@ellisshelby8579]

I love wintersowing. I’ve already done several jugs with brassicas , herbs and perennial flowers. I will do my tomatoes and more tender things on Feb. I do prefer potting mix because I know there are no weed seeds starting off in there.

[@joytotheworld2100]

I am so excited to do this. I saved my milk jugs all year, not knowing what I would use them for. Here is the reason. I'll be doing herbs. Fun stuff.

[@kimberlyomeara5450]

This looks so interesting I'm going to try it too. Can't wait to see my results... can you give us a follow up video when they start to sprout. I'm interested in your results.

[@darlenecameron622]

Wow! No tape❣️ the duct tape is the bane of my WS experience. I am learning new stuff everyday with Luke! Thank you!

[@CoffeeCakeCrumble]

Tomatoes you say??🤔🤔 I grow heirlooms exclusively and ferment pulp to separate. I forgot a couple containers outside, which froze. I thawed the ice, extracted the seeds and air dried. Compared to properly harvested seeds, the frozen ones are dark brown. I did keep them to see if they would germ after freezing. Inevitably there are always volunteers from the last season which pop up at will after being buried under ice and snow, so I have hope it's not a total loss!

[@VeronicaMartinezSoberano]

Tomatoes and Peppers are my only doubt about this method! They need warm soil and plenty of growth time for the fruits to be harvested. I’m going to try a few outdoors and a few indoors and see which produce fruit quicker.

[@juliemcgugan1244]

Winter has been so weird where I am living (Peyia, Cyprus.) Just 2-3 weeks ago, it was like end-of-Summer/Autumn. My family where visiting for the holidays and remarked about how warm it was (16-21 deg C, during the days!) Now, though, just this past week, we are down to 5-6 deg C at night and below 10 most of the time, during the day, with very regular rain; almost every day.) I really hope that this won't mean that Spring is slow in coming, but that was what it was like last year. Winter was slow to go and Spring was almost non-existent! It almost went from Winter to Summer and many of my Spring crops bolted. This is not usual at all. It does get very hot here, during the summer (45+ deg C.) But last summer although it didn't breach 45 deg C where I am living (Other Cyprus cities did exceed this,) but the summer was early and it lasted so long! I planted my Spring bulbs in December, because it was still way too warm in October and even November!

[@kathyp3494]

Happy birthday

[@user-rq8og7mm9f]

I've done this in the past. Will probably try some this year.

[@rg-mi5hh]

We winter sow in our breezeway on a garden greenhouse shelf. Tomatoes do great. Peppers are slow. We put pans or potting trays under the milk jugs to catch any water that drains. Will do a few outside this year to see what happens. It is really fun to get a head start on growing when you don't have a greenhouse.

[@lindalouis3731]

I can't wait to try this. I'm going to try strawberries, poppy, and cauliflower! Never had any luck growing cauliflower; hoping this is the ticket! ❤

[@lburrsshinyhunts2253]

Are they regular strawberries or alpine strawberries?

[@jswhosoever4533]

I've had trouble with cauliflower, broccoli and Brussels sprouts for years...I'm going to wait til August to start them this year.

[@jswhosoever4533]

@Ni-dk7ni my zone heats up before they head out good and they just bolt before I get a decent crop. Doesn't matter how well I mulch. I can't go another year like this...😓😩

[@dustyflats3832]

@@jswhosoever4533try shade cover. I had some heavy soil delivered and found the brassicas love it. I also read the roots like clay soil. More nutrients and they do need moisture. If all else fails get a soil analysis. Potash may help also. I recently learned that potash is almost a complete fertilizer except no nitrogen, just have to watch PH.

[@jswhosoever4533]

@@dustyflats3832 the soil is fine. We have a bbq business and use only hardwood to smoke our meats. I use pot ask all the time. I've used shade cloths for the past 4 years. I'm waiting til the heat is almost over. Maybe I'll start the seeds in July but no sooner.

[@cbak1819]

Looking forward to seeing your progress Luke!

[@dangalimidi5609]

@migardener I have the following flower seeds (from MIGARDENER 😊). Are all of these good for winter sowing? Batchelor's button, Aster, Salvia, and Cosmo. I also have Snapdragon and poppy, but you mentioned those in this video.

[@Nikki-mx5my]

I tried this method for Bachelor Buttons and found it worked great. I did sow the seeds a bit later in the season, more like early spring (early March I would say) but we did have a cold spring last year. Asters would probably be fine too. Don’t know about cosmos but why not try? Go for it!

[@SilverSaabArc]

Cleome and lavender for my cold stratified stuff. I'm not starting them until the 2nd week of April though. I actually have a lot of kale and mustered that self seed, and I'll dig them out and move to pots in May to make room for the cleome trap crops and pollinator attracting stuff. 😅

[@bettyemitchell6509]

Love winter sowing, 6 water jugs done so far. Will do more tomorrow. I have used this method many years. Thank you Luke.

[@kenbrown438]

@MiGardener : 😊 Happy New Year 😅 : this is "exactly" the information I am looking for !!!! Thanks so very much !!!! I'm watching this video over and over and over again !!!!

[@markstothard2100]

I’ve sown onions, leaks, cauliflower, cabbage, kale, beetroot, lettuce all under lights and on a heat mat. Just germinating my toms, aubergine, peppers, courgettes, cucumbers on a heater before moving to the grow lights.

[@ruthannecoro6198]

Im going to try winter sowing this year. Ive got seeds sorted and ordered. Im in 5b so I plan to start next week. I am heading out of town for a week or Id start today! Im going to try using clear storage bins for smaller seedlings trays and milk/juice jugs.

[@WS-by5cl]

I’m in 5a and going to try this, too! I already have some seeds stratifying in the fridge, but might do some experimenting with this method too. 🧪

[@heatherannekennedy9368]

We had a lovely guest visit our garden club last winter and share her tips for winter sowing - I had tried it before with npt much success by she inspired me to give it another go. 37 of my 40 jugs did amazing! I was able to start everything in my brand new 20x30 inground garden from seed last year and it was awesome! I have asparagus, lavender, oregano and dahlias snuggled up under leaves, compost and straw overwintering in the garden.

[@terrivance8750]

Luke, It's easier to poke holes in the bottom w/out stabbing yourself if you do it before you cut the jug in half. 😊

[@jolenegatto399]

I don’t have any milk jugs atm but I do have plenty of clear plastic tubs! I think I’ll try one with seedlings and in another I’ll try growing some greens right in the tub! What do you think? 4-5 inches of soil in the bottom should do it..

[@gailf.5018]

So cool! ❤ Luke, can you do onions/leeks/shallots this way in the milk jugs?

[@kaleigh5125]

I'm glad you asked this, I was looking for this question and/or answer.

[@dustyflats3832]

I did in Z5 and it worked.

[@aalejardin]

One thing I have learned about winter sowing is that it is important to use some soil/medium that has nutrition in it. Otherwise the seeds sprout but then become stunted. I like your jug method. I have always taped the jugs but your way would be easier.

[@brg2743]

We will be trying some apple cider half gallon jugs this year. The are taller than milk jugs which keeps the plant inside the greenhouse a little longer hopefully.

[@mfanning345]

Working on getting my winter sowing done soon. Picked out seeds and getting the containers ready. Perfect timing

[@hollyhock3945]

I winter sowed tomatoes and peppers a few years ago. The tomatoes did good, but the peppers were stellar.

[@dustyflats3832]

What zone?

[@hollyhock3945]

@@dustyflats3832 5b

[@meredithotoole3049]

Hi Luke, I've used milk jugs in the past and have had success but am planning to try winter sowing this year using clear bins as covers (and planting directly into the ground) like you've talked about in previous years. I know you start most of your seeds indoors, but I'm curious why the change to milk jugs? Did you have any issues using the bins? Thanks for always sharing such great knowledge and tips!

[@debbierhode6291]

I plan on doing this, but not when it is minus 2 degrees here lol. I'll wait a week or two when it's supposed to get to a balmy 36

[@SerialSpinner-ss]

We were -28 this morning so I'm waiting for a little while, too! 😆

[@debbierhode6291]

@@SerialSpinner-ss 🤣

[@christinasmith7034]

If you make a small vertical cut on the top half, it is easier to flex it into the bottom half.

[@meshahudman5539]

well...as it so happens, my soil is very frozen from ground frost still, even with our January thaw we see every year. So, potting mix it is!

[@dependentongod4ever]

I used Epic Gardeners 6 cell seed starting pots, and put 3 of them in 2.5 gallon ziplock bags I got from the dollar store. Filled them with seed starting mix and poked holes in the bags. I used random bamboo rods I had laying around to poke through the tops of the bags and laid them across 2 buckets to help keep the bags upright. I also put a plastic clip on the side of the opening to help keep part of it open, and then zipped the bag mostly closed to about an inch or so opening. I planted some indeterminate tomatoes, peppers, acorn squash, straightneck squash, spaghetti squash, midget cantelope, moon and stars watermelon, (I think I did tigger melon), and ha'ogen melon seeds. Trying it out for the first time so, we'll see! Our milk comes from glass jugs, and the ziplock bag method would be easiest--and cheapest---for me, currently....so, figured I'd give it a try!

[@jenniferhunter4074]

I've used an old storage tote (clear-ish lid/clear-ish bin) that was wrecked and cracked. I just popped in little 4 inch starter pots into the bin and voila.. done. That storage tote died so no more winter sowing until another of my totes cracks. I did try your method but that was more time sensitive because my little seed starter thingy was tiny. .

[@dustyflats3832]

Not sure what zone you are in, but most of those seeds you listed are warm weather vegetables and will probably rot or freeze. I tried the bag method last year with styrofoam bowls inside and they dried out way too much and was difficult to keep them upright. In Z5 we would set warm season seeds out later closer to spring and need to cover if below freezing. Good luck and don’t get discouraged if you are in cold country. Also check out I think last year’s video where Luke planted right in the garden and covered with a clear tote with holes big enough to let snow/water in and I believe it worked.

[@smuggafree]

I"m glad I saw this video because I was planning to do this. I thought I would wait for it to become warmer but now I know I don't have to wait. Thanks Luke.

[@JoyJoyJoi]

Is there a good list of seeds that need cold stratification? I find differences in lists on the Internet

[@mandyrobertson4704]

I've been doing this for the last 5 years and it works great!

[@angelaschettino1327]

Love winter sowing! Hopefully I’ll have another successful year! Dill, spinach, kale, parsley, Swiss chard and many flowers!

[@tammyjones949]

I am in Ga and I just 10 jugs yesterday. First time ever doing so and I plan on doing some more over the next month! Hopefully I will see good results

[@lilawiese2460]

Have you finished all your winter sowing? I am also in georgia, northeast, and hoping tomorrow isn't too late to do this.

[@user-gz2qh1ie8d]

Have never tried this but will do this year! Have to wait til some of this snow is gone! Will try some herbs and spring things! Love snapdragons! Will get some seed for those too! And the deer don't eat them so that's great! The deer here have been displaced by new homes going in up in the back hills so go after our gardens and Flower gardens now.😣

[@WorldsWorstGardener]

I've been trying to do poppies for a couple of years now - a lot of people talk about basically just dumping them on the ground and waiting, but I've never had any luck. I've seen the milk jug method in a few videos, but have never seen the "cut it completely and shove it back together" like you did - I'll give that a try! I also bought some clear tubs and am going to try doing stratification in those to compare to the milk jugs.

[@smithy4121]

I like this idea. We have windy winters in the UK so I'd probably have to figure out how to weigh it down a bit more. Maybe put more compost in than i really need. We unfortunately don't have huge milk cartons like that so I'd have to make do with our 4 pint cartons. I probably would tape it, again because of the wind. I'd like to grow lettuce like that. I'd love to try tomatoes but im not sure our frost free time is long enough to get ripe tomatoes if I did that.

[@dustyflats3832]

Yes, at least 4” of soil and taping in your area would be wise. If you have a crate of some sort to set them in that should hold it down.

[@smithy4121]

@@dustyflats3832 that's a good idea thank you.

[@ah3ll0]

I used tape because my place gets so windy. I also write on the tape.

[@johnwood738]

Win-win today came in from the mailbox. My pin on the month of the heirloom tomatoes showed up and then you post a video!

[@neenasgarden]

I had no idea so many things could be winter sown! I’ve already started some inside, but will use this method now, too. Thank you!!

[@MIgardener]

You are so welcome!

[@karahousler1392]

I’m winter sowing for the 2nd year and so far I’m doing, well lots of things. 😂 There wasn’t anything that didn’t work for me last year. My tomatoes I winter sowed were about and inch thick in the stems and 6 feet high.

[@GeorgeLucas1138]

Have you ever tried doing this but where the seeds do not need to be transplanted? I'm thinking about cutting the bottom of the jug out and letting the seeds germinate and grow in the same place they will be all season. Like always I will report back with data

[@VeronicaMartinezSoberano]

I saw someone share this idea, they cut the jug in half and only kept the top with the milk opening hole and they added their seeds straight to the ground and used the top to cover their seeds.

[@agnesstupp4778]

In one of your previous video (3 years ago), you also mentioned using inverted storage tote. Do you put holes at the bottom of the tote then invert it and place it on top of the soil where you’ve planted seeds? This will be my first time trying winter sowing.

[@tealbruce7145]

I've been wanting to winter sow some morning glory vines to get a head start on my neighbor's invasive Creeping Virginia. Thanks for the tutorial! Spoons & forks as garden tools for the win!

[@abbypetree5787]

any other containers that would work besides milk jug??? how about (bigger) berry containers? kitty litter containers?