So far in this series we have covered my general plan, things I am using to help keep costs low and be more sustainable, and the produce I chose to grow.  This week we are talking about my planting calendar.  Now, you guys are going to think this sounds too easy when I tell you.  But sometimes simplicity is best, right?

On the back of any seed packet you will find information on the variety of vegetable you have, germination and planting information, how to best sow the seeds, a zone map, and tips on how to grow that particular vegetable the best that you can.  To find out when to start my seeds I looked at my zone map to find out when that particular seed should go in the ground.  Then, I went back six weeks to figure out when to start my seeds indoors.

For example, a red cherry tomato in my zone should be put in the ground in April-June.  On March 1 I started my red cherry tomato seeds indoors in my eggshell planters.  I placed three of each seed in each shell.  As they grow, watch for which plant seems stronger and hardier.  At the end of three weeks, thin the three seedlings down to one.  This will give the surviving seedling three weeks to grow with no competition in its pot before placing it outside.

When you thin your seedlings, if they are already good size and you feel they should come out of their eggshells, I have empty vitamin bottles, Styrofoam cups, used produce clamshells, and a host of other items I do not throw away but keep instead so I can transplant my seedlings to for a few weeks before taking them outside.  Come April 1^st, they will be all grown up and ready to weather whatever the great outdoors may bring.

Here are the vegetables I chose, the dates I started my seedlings-or will start my seedlings, and when they will be moved outside.

• Brandywine tomatoes-started February 16, plant outside April 1
• Jelly bean tomatoes-started February 16, plant outside April 1
• Italian Parsley-started February 16, plant outside April 1
• Cilantro-started February 16, plant outside April 1
• Basil-started February 16, plant outside April 1
• Tarragon-started February 16, plant outside April 1
• Oregano-started February 16, plant outside April 1
• Mint-started February 16, plant outside April 1
• Cucumbers-started March 1, plant outside April 30
• Pumpkin-started March  1, plant outside April 30
• Chives-started March 15, plant outside May 1
• Thyme-started March 1, plant outside April 30
• Sage-started March 1, plant outside April 30
• Bush green beans-started March 15, plant outside May 1
• Crimson sweet watermelon-start on March 26, plant outside on May 15
• Hale’s Best cantaloupe-start on March 26, plant outside on May 15
• Butternut squash-start on March 26, plant outside on May 15
• Carnival sweet pepper mix-started March 15, plant outside May 1
• Straightneck squash-start on March 26, plant outside on May 15
• Black beauty zucchini-start on March 26, plant outside on May 15

I should mention I am in zone 6b according to the USDA Gardening and Plant Hardiness Zone Map.  All dates were calculated using that hardiness zone.

If you don’t have the space, time, or the inclination to start seeds, you can still grow your own vegetables.  Go by your local tractor supply and pick up some organic plants when they need to actually be planted outside.  Let someone else do the mothering of the seedlings.  This is still a cheaper option than buying all your produce from the grocery store!

Have any of you started seeds indoors yet?