The decision to direct sow or transplant seedlings depends on various factors, including the specific crop, local climate, and gardening preferences. Here are some considerations for each method:

Direct Sowing:

Preferred for Certain Crops: Some crops prefer direct sowing, as they don't tolerate transplanting well. Root vegetables like carrots and radishes, for example, develop better when sown directly into the soil. I find that plants like beans, peas, all gourds (squash, zucc, pumpkin, luffa, etc), and all tubers tend to do better when seeds are started in the ground.

Less Disturbance: Direct sowing reduces the stress on plants caused by transplanting. Plants grown from seeds sown directly into the ground are acclimated to their growing environment from the beginning. There is a growing movement of no-till gardening that argues the least soil disruption the better. Instead of ripping out old plants they plant around them. There are great results coming out of no till gardening.

Saves Time and Effort: For some gardeners, direct sowing can be more time-efficient, as it eliminates the need for indoor seed starting and transplanting. Not only is does it save time and energy, but also supply costs. Direct sow does not require seed trays, extra soil, artificial light (if starting seedlings indoors), and irrigation.

Suitable for Cold-Hardy Crops: Cold-hardy crops like peas and spinach are often directly sown in early spring when the soil is still cool.

Transplanting Seedlings:

Extended Growing Season: Starting seeds indoors allows you to get a head start on the growing season. This is particularly beneficial for crops that require a longer growing season or in regions with a short frost-free period. In Florida, we don't have to worry too much about not being able to direct sow due to snow or frozen earth. But starting plants indoors during cooler months does help avoid an unexpected frost.

Better Control: Transplanting provides better control over the early stages of plant growth, including temperature, light, and moisture conditions. It allows you to protect seedlings from adverse weather and pests until they are more robust.

Ideal for Warm-Season Crops: Warm-season crops like tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants are often started indoors and transplanted after the last frost to ensure a longer growing period. Peppers are definitely a plant I do not direct sow. I never have any luck with direct sow of peppers. They love heat and having control of my seedlings temperatures has greatly increased my germination rates.

Precision Planting: Transplanting allows for precise spacing and organization in the garden. It can be easier to manage if you have limited space or want to create a specific layout.

In summary, the choice between direct sowing and transplanting depends on the specific requirements of the plants you're growing and your gardening goals. This should be the most important factor in determining which method to use. What does the specific plant want? Some gardeners use a combination of both methods, starting certain crops indoors and directly sowing others in the garden. Experimenting with both approaches and observing the results in your specific gardening conditions can help you determine the most effective strategy for your situation.