My seed directions say to plant when the soil temp is 65 degrees.
Technically, they expect you to go out there and use a probe thermometer. But most gardeners don't have those hanging around the garden shed. :)
An easier method is to simply stick your hand in the soil. If you can keep it comfortably down in the soil for a full minute, the soil is 60-65F. If you can't, it is colder than that.
I think we planted our garden too soon, because the soil seems cool. If we place black landscape fabric over the seeded areas, will this help to germinate the seeds? How long should we leave it on?
Black plastic may be too much in terms of heat. You could actually cook the seeds rather than just heat the soil. I would say instead, I would recommend looking at making some simple row covers. These are rather easy to make and would help heat the soil and air, plus they can help protect young seedlings from pests.
Here is an article explaining more about them:
http://www.burpee.com/gardening-supplies/frost-protection/floating-row-covers-article10483.html
I'm ready to start planting and want to know. Who has the best seeds package.
There isn't really one "best" company to buy seed from, but you can narrow your decision with some knowledge of what you are looking for a a seed company.
All seed companies must guarantee a minimum germination rate and be certified that their seeds are disease free.
Beyond that, there are seed companies that specialize in heirloom, non-GMO, hybrids as well as different plant species.
For myself, I buy from Burpee, Baker's Creek, Tomatofest, and Seed Saver's Exchange. These are just a few of the high quality companies out there that you can buy seeds from.
What's the best way to germinate a seed?
It really depends on the plant from which you are trying to germinate. These articles should help: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/seeds/seed-germination-terms.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/seeds/cheap-seed-starting-how-to-germinate-seeds-at-home.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/seeds/seed-stratification.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/seeds/soaking-seeds.htm
Your instructions say how deep to plant, but not how many seeds to put in each one. Please help.
As a general rule of thumb: three. This allows for the possibility of at least one not germinating or being eaten (by birds, etc.). Once they come up and reach about 6 inches height, you can thin it down to the strongest plant (or two).
I have vines, which now have seeds. Are the vine seeds ready to be spread as soon as they form, or do they have to ripen before they will grow? If they have to ripen, how can I tell when they are ripe? Thank you.
They dod need to ripen, but how they ripen varied from plant to plant. Typically though when the pod dries, the seeds are ready.
Thank You Heather
How long does it take for grass to germinate?
This really depends on the type of grass you planted, but for most types about a week to 10 days.