There are a variety of different gardening techniques, and not all of them work with every type of crop. A perfect example of this is the direct-sowing vs. transplanting argument: should seeds be planted directly in the garden or started indoors first? The answer largely depends on what you’re growing.
What Is the Difference Between Direct-Sowing and Transplanting?
Direct-sowing is also called direct-seeding. It’s the process of planting seeds directly into a prepared spot in your garden. Direct-sowing is simple, cost-effective, and takes less time and effort than starting seeds indoors.
Transplanting is the process of planting live seedlings in your garden after starting them from seed indoors or buying them. Transplanting store-bought plants is much more expensive than starting your own seedlings, and starting seedlings indoors takes time, work, and a large growing space.
There are pros and cons to both gardening methods. Direct-sowing may be cheaper and simpler, but once the seeds sprout, it’s harder to control the growing conditions your tender young seedlings are exposed to. Seeds may take a long time to sprout in cold or hot weather, and the seedlings are more vulnerable to frost and insect damage.
On the other hand, starting seeds indoors and transplanting often leads to better germination rates and stronger seedlings. However, transplanting seedlings outside can cause root damage and stunted growth. Plus, starting seedlings in less-than-ideal conditions (for example, a part of the house that receives too little light) can produce weak or leggy seedlings.
Should I Direct-Sow or Transplant My Crops?
It’s worth noting that all garden seeds can be direct-sown, and most can be started indoors and transplanted. However, the method you should choose for your seedlings will depend on several factors.
First off, the types of crops you’re planting will influence how you choose to plant them. Some crops do better when direct-sown, while others do better transplanted. But more on that in a minute.
You should also consider your seed-starting set-up. If you decide to start your seedlings indoors, what kind of environment will you be growing them in? A temperature-controlled greenhouse is ideal, but a room with lots of natural sunlight, grow lights, and the ability to control temperature and humidity levels will also work.
Think about how much time you want to spend caring for your seedlings. Seeds started indoors will need regular watering, and you’ll have to make sure they are continually receiving enough sunlight and ideal temperatures.
Direct-sown seeds may still need to be watered during dry conditions, but they generally require less care. That said, if they sprout early in the season, you may need to cover them with row cover or old sheets if temperatures drop too low.
Ultimately, the choice to direct-sow or transplant is up to you. But, as noted, some seeds do better with one method and other seeds do better with the other method.
What Are Some Good Crops for Direct-Sowing?
Direct-sowing is the best option for many early-season crops, root vegetables, squash, legumes, and plants that you need to plant a lot of to get a good harvest (like carrots). Some specific crops I recommend for direct-sowing include:
Zucchini
Summer squash
Peas
Beans
Green beans
Spinach
Carrots
Turnips
Melons
Cucumbers
Beets
Arugula
Kale
Corn
What Crops Do Better When Transplanted?
Transplanting is generally best for crops with long growing seasons and those that are frost-sensitive. Starting seeds indoors allows them to get a head-start on the growing season, allowing them to reach maturity more quickly once they’ve been planted outside. Some good crops for transplanting include:
Tomatoes
Peppers
Eggplant
Artichoke
Basil
Radicchio
Asparagus
Celery
What Crops Can Be Either Direct-Sown or Transplanted?
As noted, it’s possible to direct-sow or transplant basically any crop, but some crops do better with one method or the other. That said, for many crops, it doesn’t matter which method you choose. Examples of crops you can either transplant or direct-sow include:
Broccoli
Cauliflower
Brussels sprouts
Lettuce
Leeks
Dill
Collards
Cabbage
Okra
Let’s Start Sowing Seeds Today!
Whether you decide to direct-sow or start indoors and transplant, now’s the perfect time to get your garden growing. If you’re ready to get your hands dirty and start planting, check out Sarah’s Seed Shop for all your essential gardening needs!
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