[beth123]

Hi there

Is it possible to sow seeds earlier than it says on the packet if they are to be kept on the windowsill?  I've just been speaking to a friend who said their spare room was full of seeds they have already sown.  Most of the seeds I want to grow cant be sown till march.

Thanks

[DD.]

Specifically what?

Some can be started inside, some hate warmth. You could also end up with a house full of plants that you can't put out as the conditions are not yet right if you start too early.

One guideline cannot cover all in this case.

[richyrich7]

Problem with windowsill growing is plants tend to go leggy, especially a problem when you start early as like DD. has said you can't put them out as conditions are not right, I'll stick my neck out and say generally it's not a good idea to start too early. I have a heated greenhouse & propagators and I still wait till early March for my indoor stuff, probably this year mid march it's still cold at night.

[beth123]

Thanks for that, I'll probably stick to the packet.

[Tigerhair]

I used to do that - I started in January and ended up in March with a greenhouse and house full of plants that were too big and I couldn't plant out until May!!  Over excited, I was (I sound like Yoda!!)... Patience pays off... however, go and plant some sweet peas in pots and that'll be fine :-)

[nipper31]

Or if you're really itching to get something on the go try some microgreens:

Cress, radish, peas, basil - tips that you snip off after a few days and add to salads or sandwiches...
 

[Kristen]

I'm in the don't rush camp but for people who have itchy fingers sow a few now, and a few later.  My money is on the fact that next year you will only do the later sowing