What happens to my seeds after heavy raid and cold temps?

Hi there! I have just sown zinnia and alyssum seeds in my flat bed... And since then it's been pouring really heavy: (and temperatures going to plunge tonight!) Will the seeds germinate or just rot? I also have a few gladiolus bulbs planted. What's going to happen to them? Thanking you in advance! Rumkie

The rain over the weekend was greatly needed as we have been on the dry side. The cold snap is really not that surprising as we still have about a 50% chance of a frost. Seeds germinate based on several factors. One of the most important is soil temperatures. Since it has been so cool many warmer loving plants such as zinnias will not germinate. The fear is that they will sit in the cool and moist soil and rot. Time will tell whether your planted seeds will germinate or rot. They will not grow until the soil warm sufficient to promote germination. This soil temperature issue is important to remember as plant growth is a function of not only air temperature but also soil temperatures.

As for the glads the same could happen. Luckily the glads like cooler conditions. When the soils warm you should see growth. As for your question the cold temps did not damage the seeds or corm as they were protected from the warmth of the soil. The question is really is this. Is the soil warm enough to support growth? The answer not at this time. Bottom line there is no need to rush planting as no growth will happen until the soil and air temperatures can support growth.

Hope that helps and makes sense - Dennis

This story was originally published April 16, 2014 at 11:07 AM with the headline "What happens to my seeds after heavy raid and cold temps?."