soil is too cold, can we warm it up to help germinate seeds?

Question

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?

Answer 1

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