28 February 2010 09:04:39
I've just read both Jacinta's and Cloncaw's journal on Begonia seeds. I've grown them successfully over the years. I'm growing Johnsons - Begonia Special Mixed F1 seeds. Packet read, 'temp 20-25C. You really need to start them off after Christmas as they are very slow growing. I sowed mine (in two seed trays) beginning of January and they took 2 weeks to germinate. Seeds were like dust and I didn't cover them. Seeds that small should not be covered. I had them in a propagator on a sunny window-sill. Once they germinated, I would put them out in greenhouse on sunny days, because it was so warm and light in there (greenhouse is a lean-to type facing south). I would also keep covers on them. I have even put them on top of radiator indoors as they do like bottom heat, even after they have germinated!! I would say between the two containers, I would have approx 200 seedlings (packet says 'contains average 250 seeds). Some of them now measure 1/8'' and 1/4''. I need that amount as I put them out on in front of a stone wall (see my photo album). Cloncaw, for really tiny seeds I would always grow them in a seed tray, rather than individually. I would definitely talk to the people who sold you the seeds or write to seed company as there usually is a guarantee on seed packet. Johnson says 'if you are not happy with the performance of these seeds, we will replace them'.
22 February 2010 08:53:41
Rachel I thought you'd be interested in this article. I was looking at Daily Mail Gardening - seach for 'Daily Mail Saturday Gardening'. Kew Gardens is the place to go to see an outstanding Orchid Display. Another newspaper site for you Drumanagh!!!! Lots of interesting articles contained therein. Can't see out of window freezing fog has come down big time!!
18 February 2010 09:19:31
For those interesting in growing potatos, there's a good article in today's Irish Times. I go into this site every Thursday since it was recommended by a member on garden.ie, whose Journal entry I can't find!! Thanks to whoever you are!! I also go into the Irish Examiner on a Saturday.