Native Seed Co

Plant Care Guides

Everything you need to know to help your plants thrive from seed to harvest.

Getting Started

Whether you're a beginner or experienced gardener, proper plant care is essential for a thriving garden. Our comprehensive guides cover everything from seed starting to harvesting, with specific advice for different plant types and growing conditions.

Remember that each plant has unique needs, but these general principles will help you create the right environment for your garden to flourish.

Proper Soil
Adequate Water
Right Light
Good Airflow
Gardener caring for plants

Seed Starting Guide

Starting seeds successfully is the foundation of a productive garden. Follow these steps for the best results.

1. Choose the Right Container

Use clean containers with drainage holes. Seed trays, pots, or even recycled containers work well as long as they're at least 5-8 cm deep and have drainage.

Seed starting containers

Pro tip: Label your containers with the seed variety and planting date to keep track of your progress.

2. Use Quality Seed Starting Mix

Use a lightweight, sterile seed starting mix rather than garden soil. These mixes are designed to provide the right texture and moisture retention for germinating seeds.

Seed starting mix

Pro tip: Moisten the soil before filling containers to ensure even moisture distribution.

3. Planting Depth Matters

As a general rule, plant seeds at a depth of 2-3 times their diameter. Very small seeds should barely be covered, while larger seeds need to be planted deeper.

Planting seeds

Pro tip: Some seeds, like lettuce, need light to germinate and should only be pressed lightly into the soil surface.

4. Provide Consistent Moisture

Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Consider covering containers with plastic wrap or a dome to maintain humidity until germination occurs.

Watering seedlings

Pro tip: Water from below by placing containers in a shallow tray of water to avoid disturbing seeds.

Seasonal Care Guides

Different seasons require different approaches to plant care. Follow our seasonal guides to keep your garden thriving year-round.

Spring gardening

Spring Care

  • Prepare beds and amend soil
  • Start warm-season seeds indoors
  • Plant cool-season crops outdoors
  • Prune winter damage from perennials
  • Begin regular watering schedule
Summer gardening

Summer Care

  • Water deeply and consistently
  • Mulch to retain moisture
  • Harvest regularly to encourage production
  • Monitor for pests and diseases
  • Provide shade for sensitive plants
Autumn gardening

Autumn Care

  • Plant cool-season crops
  • Collect seeds from spent plants
  • Add compost to garden beds
  • Plant spring-flowering bulbs
  • Reduce watering as temperatures cool
Winter gardening

Winter Care

  • Protect sensitive plants from frost
  • Water only when soil is dry
  • Plan next season's garden
  • Clean and sharpen tools
  • Start seeds indoors for early spring

Common Plant Problems & Solutions

Even with the best care, plants can develop issues. Learn to identify and address common problems.

Yellowing Leaves

Possible Causes:

  • Overwatering or poor drainage
  • Nutrient deficiency (especially nitrogen)
  • Insufficient light
  • Pest infestation

Solutions:

  • Adjust watering schedule and improve drainage
  • Apply appropriate organic fertilizer
  • Move plant to a location with better light
  • Inspect for and treat pests
Plant with yellowing leaves

Wilting Despite Moist Soil

Possible Causes:

  • Root rot or fungal disease
  • Root-bound container plants
  • Excessive heat or direct sun
  • Transplant shock

Solutions:

  • Improve drainage and reduce watering
  • Repot into a larger container
  • Provide temporary shade during hot periods
  • Give transplants time to adjust with extra care
Wilting plant

Pest Infestations

Common Garden Pests:

  • Aphids
  • Spider mites
  • Caterpillars
  • Slugs and snails

Organic Solutions:

  • Introduce beneficial insects
  • Use insecticidal soap or neem oil
  • Set up physical barriers
  • Practice companion planting
Caterpillar on a plant

Need More Specific Advice?

Our team of gardening experts is here to help with personalized plant care advice for your specific garden conditions.