Think of this as Christmas in July, but for plant lovers and without any gifts. 😉 If you’re planning to winter sow seeds this winter, there are a few things you can do now to make life easier in six months. 

What’s winter sowing? A process where you work with nature to start seeds outdoors in the winter. All you need are containers, seeds and soil. 

  • The freezing temps germinate seeds that require cold stratification, and most (but not all) native plants need it. That means they require a long, cold period (as indicated on seed packets, often 30, 60 or 90 days) to break dormancy and begin growing.
  • Learn more about the process from Michigan State University.

Here are three things you can do now to reap the rewards later: 

  • Check the garden to see what you need more of: Sometimes I get a little caught up in the thrill of starting seeds and end up with too much of one thing or plants I don’t have room for. So while your garden is in bloom, take note of any gaps. Are you missing grass? Or an early spring bloomer? A taller plant (Cardinal flower is my favorite) for the back? Make note of these now so you know what seeds to track down.
  • Collect containers: If you have the room to start a stash of containers for winter sowing, it never hurts to start your collection. I reuse most of mine each year, but if you need new ones, you’ll want clear containers with room for 5 to 6 inches of soil if you’re starting natives. Most people use milk jugs, but most any clear container works (like spinach containers). Even better? Build wooden trays that last forever. Blossom & Branch has plans you can download.
  • Collect seeds: I’m guilty of doing most of my seed collecting in the fall, so this year I’m trying to be better about doing so throughout the full season. That way, I have a more diverse selection of seeds instead of just the August-and-September bloomers. 

Right now I’m collecting seeds from or keeping an eye on these natives in zone 6B:

  • Canada anemone 
  • Fox sedge (and most other sedges)
  • St. John’s wort
  • Buttonbush 
  • Ohio spiderwort
  • Golden alexanders
  • Columbine

If the seeds aren’t ready to be collected, I’ll put a small mesh bag over the seedhead to capture some before they fall to the ground. 

  • A good rule to follow is the 80/20 rule. Leave 80 percent for the birds, and enjoy 20 percent for future plants. 

So while Michiganders likely won’t start the winter-sowing process until late December, the summer is a great time to get a head start with an easy process.