Starting vegetables from seed directly in your garden eliminates the need for transplanting and allows plants to grow in their natural environment from the very beginning. Some vegetables thrive when sown directly into the soil rather than started indoors. Below, we’ll cover five popular vegetables—carrots, cucumbers, pumpkins, lettuce, and zucchini—and the secrets to successfully growing them from seed outdoors.
How to Grow Carrots from Seed
Carrots prefer loose, well-drained soil free of rocks and heavy clumps. To ensure even germination, follow these steps:
-
Prepare the soil by tilling it to a depth of at least 12 inches and mixing in compost for nutrients.
-
Sow seeds thinly about 1/4 inch deep in rows, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
-
Keep the soil consistently moist to prevent crusting, which can hinder germination.
-
Thin seedlings once they reach 2 inches tall, leaving 2-3 inches between plants to allow proper root development.
-
Harvest when mature, usually around 60-75 days, depending on the variety.
How to Grow Cucumbers from Seed
Cucumbers thrive in warm weather and need plenty of sunlight and moisture:
-
Plant seeds in hills or rows after the last frost, when soil temperatures reach at least 65°F.
-
Sow seeds 1 inch deep, spacing them 6-12 inches apart.
-
Provide consistent moisture to prevent bitter-tasting cucumbers.
-
Use a trellis for vining varieties to save space and improve air circulation.
-
Harvest frequently to encourage continuous production.
How to Grow Pumpkins from Seed
Pumpkins need a long growing season and plenty of room to spread:
-
Direct sow seeds when soil temperatures reach 70°F, spacing them 3-5 feet apart.
-
Plant seeds 1 inch deep in small mounds, with 2-3 seeds per mound.
-
Water deeply and consistently, especially as fruits develop.
-
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and control weeds.
-
Harvest when the skin hardens and the stem begins to dry, usually in late summer or fall.
How to Grow Lettuce from Seed
Lettuce is a cool-season crop that thrives in early spring and fall:
-
Sow seeds directly into well-prepared soil, about 1/4 inch deep.
-
Space seeds 1 inch apart, then thin seedlings to 6-8 inches apart once they emerge.
-
Keep soil consistently moist to prevent bitter leaves and bolting.
-
Provide partial shade in hot weather to extend the growing season.
-
Harvest leaves regularly to encourage continuous production.
How to Grow Zucchini from Seed
Zucchini is a prolific summer squash that’s easy to grow:
-
Plant seeds after the last frost, when soil temperatures reach at least 60°F.
-
Sow seeds 1 inch deep, spacing them 2-3 feet apart.
-
Water consistently and deeply to support rapid growth.
-
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and reduce weeds.
-
Harvest young zucchini frequently to encourage continued production and prevent oversized fruit.
Growing vegetables from seed directly in the garden is a simple and effective way to establish healthy plants. By following these tips for carrots, cucumbers, pumpkins, lettuce, and zucchini, you’ll enjoy a bountiful harvest all season long. Happy gardening!