Have some of you tried direct seeding of tomatoes, impatiens, etc.? I read
years ago that direct seeded plants would catch up with, and overtake,
indoor-started plants in terms of size, vigor, and production. Back in my
zone 7 (ahs heat zone 3-7, Sunset 7) garden I found this to be clearly true
when I planted identical varieties side by side. My greenhouse started
plants were very healthy, but never came close to the eventual size,
quality, and productivity of plants from direct seeding that took place the
same day the indoor starts were transplanted into the garden. I now direct
seed anything that will germinate fairly quickly. My first pickings are
later, but the yield and quality is higher. What I wonder is whether there
is a zone limitation to the effect? Some of you may want to try the same
side-by-side experiment.
Stephen Sadler, Ph.D.
USDA 9, AHS heat zone 8,
Sacramento CA - Mediterranean climate
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