Read a Seed Packet
- Identify the species and cultivar name. Note any descriptions of traits (disease resistance, flavor, color).
- Find the light requirement (full sun, partial shade) and confirm it matches the intended growing site.
- Read the planting instructions: whether to direct sow or start indoors, planting depth, and spacing between plants.
- Note the timing information: when to sow relative to frost dates (e.g., “2 weeks before last frost” or “after all danger of frost has passed”).
- Find the days to maturity and compare to the length of your local frost-free growing season.
- Check for soil or watering notes if provided.
- Record the key requirements in the same format used for the plant research record: light, water, soil, temperature, spacing, and timing.