Winter seed sowing is a great little project if you're looking for nature-related activities in the colder months. It also instills hope, giving you something to look forward to in the spring.

Many plants benefit from this type of sowing, but I especially recommend Native plants. They need this time outdoors, in colder temperatures, to germinate. They also attract native pollinators and birds to your area.

What you will need:

• Seeds of choice
• A plastic tote (you can substitute with an upcycled gallon-size plastic water jug by cutting the container almost in half, leaving a hinge by the handle)
• (optional) Peat pots
• Organic potting soil
• Coarse untreated sand (if sowing Native plant seeds) or Vermiculite (optional)
• Spray bottle with water.

1. If using a plastic tote, drill holes (using a 1/4 drill bit) in the top for watering and in the bottom for good drainage.
2. Fill your pots with soil or put a layer of soil directly into the tote at least 2-3" high.
3. Lightly tamp down on the soil.
4. Water the soil, making sure it's moist but not waterlogged.
5. Plant your seeds according to instructions, typically on the back of your seed packet.
6. If you're using Native seeds, you might need to lightly sprinkle them with coarse sand or vermiculite.
7. Spray the planted seeds with water from your spray bottle.
8. Cover the tote and snap the top in place.
9. Place outside and allow nature to take care of the rest.
10. When spring arrives and there's no more danger of frost, you can uncover your tote and plant your seedlings in the ground.

You may want to check on the seeds occasionally during a dry spell and give them a little water, but otherwise, they should be all set.

*If using an upcycled container, you won't need the cap. Puncture a couple of small holes around the top and 6-7 small holes on the bottom. Fill the bottom with at least 3" of moist soil. Plant your seeds. Spray with a water bottle. Then, tape the container back together with duct tape and place it outside.