Growing plants from seeds

Ever since I was a little girl I have loved, loved, loved gardening! When I was little my parents allowed to be have a green thumb and use a good amount of the backyard for growing vegetables. Now that I have little girls I hope to inspire them to find their inner farmer. A few months back I sat down with my daughter and we germinated some seeds; lemon, fugi apple, green apple, red delicious apple, and orange seeds. 

For those who don't know about germination, it is quite simple. Each tree is a bit different and I suggest researching how long to germinate each one before doing it. Mostly you can bet that it is between 6-8 weeks. 

First step is to take the seeds out of the fruit and clean them off. Next soak in some water, I soaked mine for 15 minutes. 

Next take a wet paper towel, place seeds on paper towel, and fold up (leave about an inch between seeds). 

Take a plastic baggy and label it the name of your seed and date it, for your own records. Place the wet paper towel inside the bag and place in a cool dry place, the best place is inside the fridge. 

When the time has come you can open up the towel and you should see some sprouts! (I wish I had taken a picture of mine! Next time I will!) Not all seeds will sprout, but if you have some then yay! 

I like to plant my seedlings somewhere safe so I use small plastic cups full of planting soil. I keep them inside as well, especially right now since it is winter and the east bay has been getting it's fair share of frost. I keep mine in the dining room window, its a great place for them and my 3 year old loves to watch them grow. 

                                   (Forgive my sloppy handwriting on the cup please!) 

When your seedlings are old enough you can move them into bigger pots and outside. I hope you do well with your gardening. 

If you want to start a garden, but don't know your hardiness zone, here is a good link- http://www.garden.org/zipzone/

Good luck and I hope you grow many wonderful things!