What Does Sowing 'Under Protection' Really Mean for Seeds?
Asked by Gard3nL0ver89
Hey everyone! I'm looking for some clarity on a note I found for some seeds I have, like mixed salad and turnip, which say to sow 'under protection' in February or March. Does this mean I should be using a greenhouse, a cold frame, or maybe some kind of fleece? I've never worked with fleece before. Can seedlings germinate and grow well under it? Appreciate any insights!
Answers
'Under protection' basically means keeping your seedlings safe from frosty conditions. Your best bets would be using a greenhouse or cold frame, or even fleece tunnels. These options provide the warmth and shelter your plants need to sprout successfully, especially in early spring.
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The outdoor ground is still quite chilly, especially in places like the UK. I’d suggest starting your seeds indoors in small pots or modules. Turnips grow pretty quickly once they germinate, so they might outgrow their containers fast. Fleece is super handy for early spring, allowing you to skip the hardening off process if you're using an unheated greenhouse.
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Great question! For mixed salad, you can start them in a greenhouse or cold frame since they can be transplanted later. Just be aware that turnips usually don't like being moved around too much, so keep them covered with a cloche or poly tunnel until they're ready for the outdoors. Fleece can work too, just like the others!
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Gard3nL0ver89: Thanks for the tips! I'm actually planning to start them indoors first and then move them out. Can’t wait to see how they grow!