Rambling Toward Spring

Called a "nesting tray," this plastic tray is about 3 inches wide and deep and about 14 inches long. These are good for starting seeds indoors, and the depth allows for good root development prior to transplanting. These trays last for years indoors but only a few years outdoors before they crack. There is no bottom drainage. ANDREW MESSINGER

A wooden seeding flat purchased at a garden center. Notice the gaps between the bottom slats that allow for drainage. The plastic-coated mesh on the top was cut from a larger roll with the sides and corners bent to make a tight fit. This mesh is used when the flats are outdoors and it keeps mice and other rodents from stealing seeds and seedlings. This flat is about 2.5 inches deep, 15 inches long and 11 inches wide. ANDREW MESSINGER

To prevent soil from "leaking" through the bottom slats, a single piece of newspaper can be laid over the bottom. The porosity of the paper allows for excess moisture to drain while keeping the soil in place. The paper will be effective for several months. ANDREW MESSINGER

A wooden seed flat after a winter outside and when available, covered with snow. The wire mesh kept the mice out and the seedlings are now getting to a size where they can be pricked or teased out and transplanted into cells. These seedlings are of a Primula species, and the flat yielded hundreds of transplants that flowered the following year and years to come. The seeds cost about $15. The flat about $15. A $30 investment yielded about 200 plants that would have cost over $3,000 to purchase. Growing like this not only saves tons of money but also allows you to grow varieties that will make your garden truly unique. ANDREW MESSINGER