The Door County Master Gardeners will kick off their Growing Together Education Series for the New Year with a January program focused on winter sowing. The free educational presentation, titled “Winter Sowing Demonstration,” will take place Monday, January 12, 2026, from 1:30 to 3 p.m. at Crossroads at Big Creek in Sturgeon Bay.
The video webinar is open to the public and designed for gardeners of all experience levels. While winter may seem like an unlikely time to start seeds, the program will highlight how gardeners can successfully sow seeds outdoors using the winter sowing method. The technique often uses recycled milk jugs as mini greenhouses, allowing seeds to undergo natural cold stratification before germinating when conditions are right.
Winter sowing is especially beneficial for native plants and offers a hands-off, cost-effective alternative to indoor seed starting. The method produces stronger, harder seedlings without the need for grow lights.
The Growing Together Education Series is part of the Wisconsin Extension Master Gardener program and emphasizes research-based gardening practices. Programs are held on the second Monday of each month at 1:30 p.m. and last about an hour, followed by a light refreshment social for those interested in connecting with fellow gardeners.
