Key Considerations for Choosing Seeds for Your Garden
- Terri Windover
- 3 hours ago
- 3 min read
Starting a garden begins with one crucial step: selecting the right seeds. The choices you make at this stage affect how well your plants grow, how much you enjoy gardening, and the success of your harvest. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced gardener, understanding what to think about when ordering seeds can save you time, money, and frustration.
Know Your Climate and Growing Season
One of the first things to consider is the climate where you live. Seeds are often labeled with zones or temperature ranges that indicate where they grow best. For example, some seeds thrive in cooler climates, while others need warm weather to germinate and mature.
Check your Hardiness Zone or local climate guide.
Choose seeds that match your region’s temperature and frost dates.
Consider the length of your growing season. Some plants need a long season to produce fruit or flowers, while others mature quickly.
Decide Between Heirloom, Hybrid, or Organic Seeds
Seeds come in different types, each with its own benefits:
Heirloom seeds are traditional varieties passed down through generations. They often have unique flavors and colors but may be less resistant to disease.
Hybrid seeds are bred for specific traits such as higher yield, disease resistance, or uniformity. They can be a good choice for beginners seeking reliable results.
Organic seeds are grown without synthetic chemicals and may appeal to gardeners focused on sustainability and health.
Choosing between these depends on your gardening goals. If you want to save seeds for next year, heirlooms are best. For a dependable harvest, hybrids might be preferable.
Understand Seed Quality and Germination Rates
Not all seeds are created equal. High-quality seeds have a better chance of sprouting and growing into healthy plants. When ordering seeds, look for:
Germination rate: This percentage tells you how many seeds are expected to sprout. A rate above 80% is generally good.
Seed age: Fresher seeds germinate better. Avoid seeds that are several years old unless properly stored.
Seed treatment: Some seeds come coated or treated to protect against pests and diseases. Decide if you want untreated seeds for organic gardening.
Reputable seed companies usually provide this information on their packaging or websites.
Match Seeds to Your Garden Space and Soil
The size and type of your garden also influence seed choice. Some plants need a lot of room to spread, while others grow well in containers or small plots.
Measure your available space before ordering.
Consider soil type: sandy, clay, or loamy soils affect plant growth.
Choose seeds suited for your soil conditions or plan to amend your soil accordingly.
For example, root vegetables like carrots prefer loose, sandy soil, while beans can tolerate heavier soils.
Plan for Planting Time and Care Requirements
Seeds differ in how and when they should be planted. Some need to be started indoors weeks before the last frost, while others can be sown directly outdoors.
Read seed packets carefully for planting depth, spacing, and timing.
Consider how much time you can dedicate to watering, thinning, and caring for seedlings.
Choose seeds that fit your gardening routine and skill level.
For example, tomatoes usually require indoor starting and transplanting, while beans can be sown directly in the garden.
Think About Your Garden Goals and Preferences
What do you want from your garden? Fresh vegetables, colorful flowers, herbs, or a mix? Your goals will guide seed selection.
Pick varieties that you and your family enjoy eating or looking at.
Consider disease resistance if you want low-maintenance plants.
Explore unique or rare seeds to add interest and variety.
If you want a continuous harvest, choose seeds with staggered maturity dates or varieties that produce over a long period.
Check for Seed Source and Sustainability
Where you buy seeds matters. Supporting local or small seed companies can provide seeds adapted to your region and promote biodiversity.
Look for seed companies that practice sustainable farming.
Avoid seeds treated with harmful chemicals if you want an eco-friendly garden.
Consider saving seeds from your own plants for future seasons.
Ordering seeds early in the season ensures you get the varieties you want before they sell out.
My personal favourite Canadian companies that I find do very well in our area are:
A HUGE selection of seeds. I am always impressed by their germination rate and quality.
Great company that carries a wide variety of seeds as well as shrubs and fruit trees that are great for zone 3.
My favourite smaller seed company. Their tomatoes have consistently been my best producers and they are Zone 4 so very close to our zone which makes their seeds acclimatized to our type of growing.
Hands down the best for Heirloom seeds and I have had amazing results.
Comments