Sowing Perennial seeds in Autumn

Discussion in 'Greenhouse Growing' started by welshone, Oct 4, 2021.

  1. welshone

    welshone Apprentice Gardener

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    I have a range of collected packets of perennial seeds.

    I have sown various half-hardy annuals in my cold frame for next spring etc.

    Can I do the same with the perennials.
     
  2. pete

    pete Growing a bit of this and a bit of that....

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    I think I would have started them a bit earlier, but its probably worth a try.

    I would have left the half hardy annuals until next spring.
     
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    • longk

      longk Total Gardener

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      To a certain extent I think that it depends on the species. I've started the Vestia seeds that you sent me as a cold winter spell improves spring germination. Likewise Eccremocarpus scaber and Salvia dolichantha.
       
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      • pete

        pete Growing a bit of this and a bit of that....

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        I was thinking along the lines of herbaceous perennials as opposed to shrubs.
        With which if you sow now you run the risk of having very small tender seedlings to get through the winter.
        Sown a couple of months ago you then get a larger and tougher plant to over winter.
        Over wintering of seeds, to my thinking, means sowing during winter and not expecting them to germinate until spring.
        But as with all things regarding growing plants, the general rules are there to be broken. :smile:
         
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        • longk

          longk Total Gardener

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          Certainly a good rule of thumb.
          There are a few exceptions though as with all things in life.
           
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          • welshone

            welshone Apprentice Gardener

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            Thanks all.
            Forgot to mention the seeds are in a wooden sided Cold frame in half trays.
            In the event of a harsh frost/freezing weather, I a paraffin heater to protect the plants.
            In addition I want to line the frame sides with bubble wrap for extra insulation. Should the bubbles be against the frame or the plants side ?.
            Thanks
             
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            • pete

              pete Growing a bit of this and a bit of that....

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              To be honest I I don't think it matters too much.
              I use the silvered stuff. It's a bit more expensive but if you don't need the light going through it reflects any warmth and light back.
               
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