Tips for Reading Seed Packets

The back of a seed packet with a map of the United States highlighted with a yellow rectangle.

A seed packet doesn’t just hold your seeds – it also tells you vital information to help your plants thrive. Lisa Schneider from Penn State Extension explains what to look for on the packet, including whether the plant needs sun or shade, how deep to bury the seeds and when you should plant, based on your location. Once you’ve studied the packet (and the time is right), you’re ready to get to planting.

Support our shows » Get our newsletter »

 

More Year-Round Gardening

A photo of tomato plants in pots.

Growing Tomatoes in Containers

4/24/25 | 5m 15s

A large red poinsettia flower with the words "Easy tips for poinsettia care" in the top left.

Poinsettia Care

12/18/24 | 3m 31s

Harvesting Winter Squash

10/18/23 | 2m 26s

A picture of dirty hedge trimmers on a sink counter.

Cleaning Garden Tools

2/3/25 | 4m 30s

Cool Season Vegetables

9/16/23 | 2m 13s

Year-Round Gardening host Tom Butzler standing next to an enlarged image of a tick.

Tick Protection & Lyme Disease Prevention

7/26/24 | 5m 9s

Warm Season Vegetables

6/28/23 | 3m 21s

A photograph of a beekeeper spraying smoke on a beehive.

Beekeeping: Getting Started

3/6/25 | 4m 54s

 

« Digital Home Page