a day in the life of a latvian mom

I couldn’t make the title shorter, sorry :).

As the days are still too cold in Latvia. We start sowing seeds late April or May outdoors. I can’t wait and I’ve been busy sowing seeds indoors and outside in water bottles – winter sowing. What I’ve planted so far.

Winter Sowing

’ve already started a variety of seeds that will thrive in the cold frame, allowing them to germinate slowly and gradually acclimate to the improving weather. Here’s a list of what I’ve sown from January 26th to today:

• Echinacea purpurea (Purple Coneflower)
• Chamomile (Medicinal) – these little flowers are a lovely addition to any garden, especially for making calming teas.
• Snapdragon (Pink ones)
• Snapdragon (Ruby)
• Shallots ‘Ambition H’ – sown January 26. I can’t wait to see these grow strong and healthy, as shallots are a staple in my kitchen.
• Brown-eyed Susan
• Delphinium ‘Magic Fountains Dark Blue/White’
• Calendula officinalis (Medicinal Marigold) – They are known for their healing properties and vibrant blooms.
• Carnation ‘Cartuja’
• Dame’s Rocket

Since this is my First time I saved half of the seeds to try indoors later on. Here is my blog post: https://latvianmom.com/2025/02/02/winter-sowing-my-first-attempt/

Indoors Sowing

I’ve also started sowing seeds indoors, it’s bit too early, but that’s me 🙂 I count the plants and if I need more, I sow them later on – when everybody does it here in Latvia. Here’s a rundown of what I’ve planted so far:

• Cucumbers ‘Lenara F1’ – Should see them coming out soon. This variety don’t need much light, and can be grown indoors!
• Leeks ‘Albos’ – they need time
• Monthly Strawberries ‘Rugia’ – everbearing strawberries
• Monthly Strawberries ‘Tresca’ – everbearing strawberries
• Lemon Verbena ‘LUX’ – Love the tee
• Bell Peper ‘California Wonder’ – I got old seed, expired 2020 🙂 I’m just curious, this one needs a lot of light and I don’t have special growing lights 🙂

Although it’s still early in the season, I’m excited to see these little plants sprout and grow. I can’t wait to add them to my garden once the weather warms up. BUT… yes, there’s a but—I don’t have my garden ready yet! I’ve got a few more raised beds, and I’ll be working on creating my kitchen garden come April. Fingers crossed that winter will be behind us by then!

Stay tuned for more updates on my indoor and outdoor gardening adventures!

Ilze

P.S. I won’t through away any plants, I will gift them or donate them to the city kitchen garden 🙂