After the plant is established and hazard of frost has passed, cut open the hotcap. On warm, sunny days, minimize holes within the sides of the hotcap to supply ventilation. See UGA Cooperative Extension Circular 872, “Winter Protection of Ornamental Plants” for more data. Use a layer of straw mulch ½ to 1 inch thick on high of beds planted to very small seed. The mulch prevents packing of the soil around the seeds when they’re watered and protects the young seedlings once they first emerge. A mulch is especially helpful during drought periods when repeated watering may be essential to get good germination and seedling emergence. Always sow seed slightly thicker than the crops will lastly stand.
Some varieties do nicely in either north or south Georgia, but not each. The microclimate (“local weather” of the plant’s quick vicinity) can also affect the success of a selected selection. “I … Read More
