With the passing of the summer equinox, each day is shorter than the day before. That’s meaningless in my mind when it’s 105 degrees and walking to the far regions of the yard feels like hitchhiking through Death Valley. Unless you wake up at 6 a.m., not much is going to get done when the heat sucks your energy like a black hole.
I was upset with myself when I realized I forgot to plant zinnia seeds in June. I’ve learned the hard way that May is too soon, and this year June came and went. I grabbed the seeds from my kitchen cupboard and foolishly stuck them in the ground, then realized the seeds were older than my expired canned foods.
I won’t be disappointed if the seeds don’t grow. The seeds would be wise to decide it’s too hot outside. I’m just glad I don’t need to look at those ancient seed packets next year.
I know I’m not alone in wishing this heat would go away. Last week I was running errands, in a rush. I was comfortable in my air-conditioned car, and I had some zippy tunes playing on the radio. When I pulled into the parking lot downtown, my patience was tested as a group of people inched across the black pavement. Their soundtrack had a dramatically slower tempo.
I parked. My song ended. As I walked, my pace also slowed to a zombie march.
Now that I’ve exhausted my supply of expired seeds, it’s time to think about a cooler season. I realize it’s now or never for planting seeds of cauliflower, broccoli and Brussels sprouts.
Carrots can be planted in July and August, according to the trusted Chico Valley Area Planting Guide. If you have counter space, you can start lettuce indoors. I’m thinking the best place for pots is in the middle of the kitchen floor, so it’s more difficult to forget to add water when you’re dancing the zombie trot.
Beating the odds
Planting older seeds is never the best choice. However, some seeds may surprise you. The Gardening Know How website notes that germination rates decline over time. This means the life in the seeds expires. Corn and peppers may term out after a single year, whereas beans, peas, tomatoes and carrots can “live” in their paper package up to four. Cucumbers and lettuce may give you a show of life after six years. The key, the writers state, is to keep your packets in a cool, dark place, perhaps a place like my kitchen cupboard.
