Seeds of Hope
Our seed journey doesn't begin in the garden or flower fields. Instead, it starts in our sun porch, which we've carefully transformed into the perfect germination space. With natural light pouring in from the windows, it’s the ideal environment for nurturing the first stages of life in our flowers. Before we plant anything, the sun porch needs a bit of prep work. We carefully clean and sanitize the flats from the previous season to ensure they’re free of any mold or leftover debris. Once that’s done, we set up our trays, pots, and soil, getting everything ready for the meticulous process of planting the seeds.
Planting each seed is more than just dropping them into the soil; it's a thoughtful, intentional process. We start by poking small holes into the soil of each flat, making sure each space gets the correct number of seeds. It’s a bit like putting puzzle pieces into place, each little seed needing its own space to grow. Sometimes, it takes a bit of extra care, especially for delicate seeds that need just the right amount of soil depth.
Once the seeds are in, comes the crucial step of labeling. It’s easy to get lost in the excitement of planting, but we know that proper labels are essential for tracking what’s been planted where. As we write each name, there’s a quiet sense of anticipation. Every label is a promise that these seeds will soon become the blooms we look forward to seeing in our fields.
In our growing room, constant care is needed to ensure the seeds thrive. The space is carefully controlled—it's not just about sunlight, but about the right temperature, humidity, and moisture levels. We turn the grow lights on and off at precise times, mimicking the natural cycle of day and night. The warmth from the lights encourages the seeds to sprout, but too much heat can dry them out, so we monitor the flats closely.
Watering is another essential task. We check each tray daily to make sure the soil is moist but not soggy, gently giving it just enough water to keep the seeds happy. It’s a delicate balance—too little, and the seeds won’t grow; too much, and the roots could drown. And, of course, there are the occasional interruptions: a curious cat or two sneaking into the growing space, perhaps hoping to chase a shadow or settle in a cozy corner.
Once the seeds are planted, it’s a waiting game. The real magic is in the observation—watching as the first green shoots begin to emerge from the soil, slowly unfurling as tiny leaves start to form. Each sprout is a tiny miracle, proof that our careful attention is paying off. It’s almost as if we’re witnessing the beginning of something special, knowing that in time, these seedlings will grow strong and vibrant.
