Winter has started to take its toll on me. Sometimes it is easy for me to get a little depressed when it is cold and snowy outside. The seed catalogs that I have been getting the past few weeks have really helped to lift my spirits and get my mind off of winter. It helps me to realize that spring is not far away and it will be time to start my seeds before you know it.

Seeing the catalogs arrive in my mailbox also reminds me that it is time for me to begin thinking and making plans for the upcoming garden season. Depending on your location, you may need to start your seeds in around a month. It truly does put a smile on my face when I think about how close the spring season to being upon us.

I love to open up the catalog as soon as I get it and look through it to see what new varieties are offered that weren't available last year. Then I will get out a pad and start to make a list of the seeds and supplies that I will need. I like to first list all of the seeds that I got last year and then I will add those seeds that are new this year that I would also like to try.

Once I have determined what seeds that I want for my garden this year I then start to think about exactly when I will need to start my seeds. If you have started seeds and had a garden in the past you won't have much problem with this because you know by experience when it is time to start your seeds and transfer them into your garden. If you are new to seed starting you may need to do a little research to best determine when you should start your seeds. The main factor for when to start your seeds is the location in which you live. There are many maps found on the internet that give a good general time frame for when to start your seeds and plant your garden. Always use this as an overall guide and use your own judgement with how the weather is that current year. A good rule of thumb is to start your seeds about six weeks before you plan to transplant them into your garden.

Before long the snow will be melting, the birds will be singing, and you will be enjoying your hobby. Make sure that you are preparing during these cold winter days.