If you plant seeds this spring, you’ll be able to fill your home with the fruits of your labor come fall. In order for your plants to thrive all summer long, though, they need a healthy start with your lawn and garden supplies. While every fruit, vegetable, herb, and flower has unique growing needs, there are a few basic tips you should always follow regardless of what you’re planting. 

3 Tips for Planting Healthy Springtime Seeds 

1. Start With Nutrient-Rich Soil 

When you go to the hardware store to pick up your lawn and garden supplies, make sure to get a few bags of seed starting mix as well. This nutrient-rich blend will foster growth far better than standard topsoil ever could. It will also facilitate drainage while leaving the seedlings with just the right amount of moisture. For optimal results, look for a seed starting mix that contains peat, perlite, or vermiculite. 

2. Confirm the Seed’s Needs

Seed packets include lots of helpful information regarding the particular species they contain. For example, some seedlings should be kept inside for several weeks after planting until they’re strong enough to withstand the elements. Read these instructions carefully and follow them as closely as possible. You’ll thank yourself come harvest time. 

3. Avoid Shady Areas

While some plants thrive in shaded areas—examples include primrose, foxglove, and impatiens—most want as much sunlight as possible. The seed package should state just how many hours of sunlight per day each species needs to bloom. You may also be able to find such information online. When in doubt, plant your seeds in an area that gets at least six hours of sunlight a day. 

To stock up on seeds for planting this spring, head to Sentinel Lumber & Hardware in Ashland, MO. Founded in 1957, this locally owned and operated business started as a fence post wholesaler and has since expanded to supply the community with lawn and garden supplies and portable buildings like garages, barns, and sheds. With spring just around the corner, customers can take advantage of their exceptional seed deal. Get single packs of Bentley Seeds for $0.59 each or two packs for $1.00! To learn more about this one-stop hardware and garden shop, visit their website. To request a quote for your next garage, fence, or barn, call (573) 657-2164.