I live in the upper peninsula of Michigan, where the growing season is short and we do everything we can to extend it. One way is to start seeds inside and then transfer them outdoors after the danger of frost has passed.
Last spring, while at my boyfriend’s house, I planted some basil and squash seeds in pots. When I went back to town, I left the pots in the car for the night. In the morning, I noticed the car was warm from the sun and thought what a great germinating environment it was. After six days, the basil seeds sprouted. I left the plants in the car for a bit longer, as we had a local freeze warning.
My car has become a greenhouse on wheels. Last fall, I dried my herbs in paper bags in the car. It worked great, and the car smelled good, too.
Mary Kramer
Marquette, Michigan