Spring Sowing with Winter Sowing Techniques: An Easy Way to Grow from Seed
Introduction
You’ve likely heard of winter sowing—the low-maintenance method of starting seeds outdoors in mini greenhouses made from recycled containers. But did you know that you can continue using this same technique well into the spring? Spring sowing with winter sowing methods is a fantastic way to keep your garden growing while taking advantage of the simplicity this method offers.
See winter sowing post here: https://www.harvestingflavor.com/blog-2-1/winter-sowing-start-seeds-outdoors
What’s the Difference Between Winter and Spring Sowing?
While the winter sowing window typically runs from late December through February, spring sowing picks up where winter sowing leaves off—usually beginning in March and continuing through April and May.
The main difference is in the types of seeds you sow and the temperatures required for germination:
Winter sowing is perfect for cold-hardy seeds that benefit from natural stratification (a cold, moist period).
Spring sowing is ideal for seeds that don’t require cold to germinate and prefer warmer soil, such as many warm-season vegetables and herbs.
Why Use Winter Sowing Techniques in the Spring?
The same benefits still apply:
No grow lights or indoor space needed
Minimal hardening off—your seedlings are already acclimated
Protection from critters and unpredictable weather
Ease of organization with less need to pot up when seedlings grow
This method is especially helpful for busy gardeners or beginners who want a low-effort way to start seeds without investing in grow setups.
What to Sow in the Spring Using This Method?
Once nighttime temps are consistently above freezing (around 40°F/4°C+), you can start spring sowing using plastic gallon water or milk jugs with drainage and ventilation holes. Think annuals and less hardy perennials.
Here are some great candidates for spring sowing with this technique:
🌱 Warm-season vegetables & herbs
Tomatoes (if you’re in a short-season zone, you’ll want to look for short germination periods)
Peppers
Basil
Squash
Cucumbers
Zinnias, cosmos, and other summer annuals
🌿 Cool-weather crops (for a second round)
Lettuce
Chard
Beets
Kale (especially in northern climates for fall harvests)
Pro tip from the Winter Sowers community: Keep your containers in a bright spot, monitor for sprouting, and open lids or remove tops when temps climb to avoid overheating.
Considerations for spring sowing vs winter sowing:
You need to closely monitor the temperatures with spring sowing. Spring days can be warm and you don’t want your seedlings to bake or dry out on a warm spring day. Some sowers open up their containers when the temps rise. If you choose this method, make sure to close the containers back up if you expect cold night temps. You’ll also risk your seedlings drying out if days are warm and breezy.
Other spring sowers just add more ventilation in their mini greenhouses - poking some more holes in the top. If you want to reuse your containers for future years, you can simply tape over those extra holes early in the process and untape when temps rise again.
When to transplant:
Like in winter sowing, plant your seedlings when you have 1-2 inches of plant, and there are true leaves present. True leaves are the actual leaves of the growing plant rather than the first set of two seedling leaves.
Final Thoughts
Spring sowing using winter sowing techniques gives you the best of both worlds—a simplified seed-starting process and the ability to grow a wide range of crops all season long. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just beginning your journey, this method offers an approachable way to fill your garden with homegrown abundance
By adapting the winter sowing technique for spring and summer, you can efficiently start a variety of plants, leading to a productive and vibrant garden.
Inspired by methods shared in theWinter Sowers Facebook community. Many thanks to the gardeners who continue to share wisdom and successes there!
Thanks for reading! If you’re inspired to deepen your plant-based journey or cultivate your gardening skills, I’m here to support you. Explore personalized coaching, workshops, and more on my Work With Me page. Let’s grow together!