The Key to Starting Seeds

When you live in a state with a short growing season, learning how to start seeds indoors is the key to a fruitful garden.

Click on each icon in the image below to learn more about the needs of starting seeds.

SOIL
  • Don’t use garden soil - find a quality seed-starting potting mix
  • Potting mixes are sterile, which means they’re weed and disease-free
  • They’re also lightweight and are better at retaining moisture
WARMTH
  • Seeds germinate better when the soil is at or above 70 degrees
  • Keep seed trays in a consistently warm place
  • Avoid windows as they can let in a draft and create a too-cool environment
  • Consider purchasing a seed starting mat or heat source to place under your seeds
WATER
  • Seeds need to be kept consistently moist; soil shouldn’t be too dry or too wet
  • Use a spray bottle to mist everyday
  • Watering cans are okay, but they might push the seeds to the surface or wash soil away
  • Water should be at room temperature
LIGHT
  • Seeds will need between 12-16 hours of light per day
  • Think quantity over quality
  • You can place a fluorescent light over your seeds:
    • Keep light between 2-4 inches above the plants
CONTAINERS (PLASTIC)
  • Can be reused
  • Easy to fill and move around
  • Maximizes plant density
  • May cause root-bound plants and transplanting shock
  • Not eco-friendly
CONTAINER (EGG CARTON)
  • Eco-friendly
  • Works best for keeping seeds in individual spaces
  • Less transplanting shock
  • Containers may be costly due to prices of eggs
  • Less plant density
  • Seedlings may become root bound
LABELS
  • Use a label for each container, including:
    • The variety of plant
    • Date sown
  • The date will help you determine if the seed is viable or not
  • You can use everyday items to make your own labels, like popsicle sticks or plastic spoons
SEEDS
  • Look for reliable seed sources, such as a local greenhouse
  • Leftover seeds can be used the following year, but may not be as viable
FERTILIZER
  • Seeds have enough food until true leaves appear
  • Once leaves appear, they need fertilizer
  • Soluble fertilizers at half-strength are best, look for a 20:20:20 blend
  • Monitor the color of your plants:
    • If they are pale, they need more fertilizer
    • If they are browning on the edges, they may be burning
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