Kickstart your garden before the snow even melts by starting seeds indoors. Getting ahead of the planting season is a great way to give your veggies and blooms a strong and healthy start!
Indoor seed starting is great for plants that need a longer growing season or a head start. By nurturing seedlings in a controlled environment, you can ensure stronger plants and an earlier harvest. Whether you’re a gardening newbie or looking to expand your skills, here’s a guide to help you get started.
1. Gather Your Supplies
Before you start planting, you’ll need the right tools and materials:
- Seeds: Choose varieties suited for your region and garden goals.
- Containers: Seed trays or even upcycled items like yogurt cups work well, just make sure they have drainage holes.
- Soil: Opt for a lightweight, well-draining mix.
- Labels: Popsicle sticks or plant markers can help you keep track of what you planted.
- Light source: A sunny windowsill works for some plants, but grow lights are ideal for consistent light.
- Watering tools: A spray bottle can help deliver gentle hydration.
2. Get the Timing Right
The best time to start indoor seeds depends on your last frost date. Check online for the average date and then count back the number of weeks indicated on the seed packet. Cool-weather crops like kale and broccoli can usually be started sooner while warm-weather crops like peppers and tomatoes should wait until the frost danger has passed.
3. Prepare Your Containers
Cleanliness is key to preventing disease. To prepare your containers, wash them in warm, soapy water and rinse them well. Fill them with your seed-starting soil mix but leave about half an inch of space at the top. Before planting, moisten the soil until it is damp, but not soggy.

4. Plant Your Seeds!
Your seed packet should provide information for planting depth and spacing, but the general rule of thumb is to plant seeds twice the depth of their size. Tiny seeds, for example, can simply be pressed onto the soil surface. After planting, gently cover the seeds and mist them lightly with water.
5. Provide Friendly Growing Conditions
Most seeds thrive in temperatures between 18 to 24°C and require 12-16 hours of light once germinated. Humidity is also crucial, so cover trays with a clear plastic dome or wrap to trap moisture but remove it once seedlings sprout to prevent mold. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged—overwatering can cause root rot, while dry soil can hinder growth.
6. Thin the Seedlings
Once your seedlings develop their first true leaves, it’s time to thin them. This means removing the weaker seedlings to let the stronger ones thrive. Use scissors to snip the smaller seedlings at the base, as pulling them out can disturb roots.
7. Transplant If Needed
If roots start peeking out of the bottom or your plants look cramped, then your seedlings have outgrown their containers and it’s time to move them to larger pots. Be gentle with the roots, and transplant into fresh seed-starting mix.
8. Harden Off and Move Outdoors
Before planting your seedlings in the garden, they’ll need time to adjust to outdoor conditions. Start by placing them in a sheltered, shady spot for a couple of hours a day, increasing the time over the next week or so.
Not only does starting seeds indoors give you a head start on the growing season, but you also gain the satisfaction of nurturing plants from their tiniest beginnings. Grab your seed packets and get ready to grow!
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