mystery sprouts

When I planted the seeds, I didn't label what each section held. I wasn't too worried about it because the seed types were limited to tomatoes and herbs. Most of the bays have sprouted something green. The tomato seeds were the first on the scene, and they continued to grow, and grew fast! I was able to recognize the tomato sprouts because some plants still had the husks of the tomato seed stuck to it.

As for the herbs, I can't tell from looking at it although when I rub their tiny leaves, I smell a pleasant but familiar fragrance. Despite this aromatic indicator, I can't tell if it is rosemary or lavender. I planted both types plus basil, cilantro, and thyme. The herbs seem to be doing quite well and taking their time to grow and develop in the incubator.

I'm worried about the tomato sprouts. TH's sister advised us that it's difficult to grow tomatoes from seeds. She added that people usually buy the plants instead. In addition to this, I had transplanted the sprouts to larger pots and they don't seem to be doing well. As a result, I searched online for advice about growing tomatoes from seeds and found these great instructions and tips from Renee's Garden and A way to garden.

I was surprised to learn that the tomato sprouts needed to be kept warm until they are further along in their growth and development. I also didn't realize each sprouted cell should be planted in a single pot. I planted each bay in a 6" planter with the thinking that I'll eventually plant each individual plant in larger containers when they look hardy enough to grow on their own. I may have to divide them up sooner than expected. Despite learning about proper tomato gardening after the fact, I'm hopeful that at least one tomato sprout will survive from each planter.

spring garden.

I know it's not officially spring yet but with the mild winter we've been having and the unseasonably warm temperatures we've been experiencing has thrown plant life out of synch. It's been reported that cherry blossoms are early this year. The green market at Union Square are selling flowers and plants that are normally not available until later in the season. The colors and sweet fragrance of blooms and sprouting herbs are intoxicating and sparks the imagination of sowing the balcony garden I've fantasized about.

This past weekend, I was busy with a starter garden for the balcony. TH has a balcony, which we haven't really taken advantaged of but I think this year, we may spend more time out there? Or at least, the garden will give us a reason to spend more time out on the balcony.

I replanted a couple of perennials in a new planter. I wasn't able to fit them all but hopefully what I was able to plant to be a nice arrangement; white hyacinths and purple crocuses. I also got some cool colored irises and a lavender plant. I also planted seeds in an incubator. With some luck, we may have some tomatoes and a bunch of herbs (basils, coriander, lavender, sage, rosemary, and thyme) to harvest in the summer.

There are still more things I'd like to grow in our balcony garden like strawberries, more flowers, and maybe bamboo. But I'm pleased that the garden has initiated.