Storing and Sprouting Seeds

Storing Seeds -- To ensure that seeds wake up refreshed from their long winter naps,take the time to tuck them in properly. Moisture,heat and fluctuating temperatures are a seeds worst enemy,so don't simply abandon your leftover packets to the elements by leaving them in a garden shed. By the next spring they will have lost much of their vigor-the ability to germinate quickly and healthily- and many may have died.

Instead place packets in an airtight container such as a canning jar with a new lid. Then make a few moisture absorbing sachets to store with them by wrapping 2 tablespoons of untreated cat litter or powdered milk in a double layer of tulle. Close the lid tightly, and put the jar in a cool, dark place.

Super Sprouts- Spritz a paper towel with water until it's very damp but not soaking wet;place in a glass jar. Drop in about a dozen dried beans or lentils;cover jar;and set in indirect sunlight so it's neither too hot nor too cold. A plant will angle its leaved toward the light; to make yours grow straight, rotate the jar around halfway daily. Expect to see shoots in 5-10 days