How To Start Seeds Indoors

Tips on starting seeds indoors

If you’d like a little head start on planting your favorite flowers, vegetables or herbs, and have them ground or container ready by the appropriate growing season, starting your seeds indoors is a great option to consider. I will give you basic tips on how to achieve nice, healthy plants using this method.

You will need to use good quality growing medium or soil. Choosing a peat-based, sterile mix is your best option. These mediums are light and loose, and will prevent fungi from forming – which may cause seedlings to rot. Keep in mind that all seeds need moisture, warmth, and light in order to produce healthy plants.

Ready-to-use peat pots are ideal to use. They usually come in packs and are relatively inexpensive and simple to use. Alternatively, you can make your own growing containers by punching small draining holes at the bottom of Styrofoam cups.

It is important to moisten your soil thoroughly before sowing your seeds. This will provide a damp environment for the seeds to adapt to its new ‘home’. Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the germination process.

Use a pencil, or your finger, and poke small holes into the soil, between ¼” – ½’ in depth. The depth should be about 3 times the width of the seed. After you have sowed the seeds, cover the holes lightly by tapping or spreading the top soil over them and gently pat down. Next, cover your containers with a plastic bag or wrap. This will keep the soil moist. Remove the cover after the seeds have sprouted. Cut back on watering often; let the soil dry a little between watering.

Seedlings need ample light to grow properly. A fluorescent tube or shop light fixture, around 4’- 6’ in length is perfect. Place the plants at least 4” below the light. Another source is direct sunlight. A table or windowsill located in direct sun works just fine, and the sun will also provide warmth the seedlings need as well. You may also place a bendable-type desk lamp near the containers. The lamp will provide both light and heat from the bulb.

When the seedlings have grown to at least 3” in height, now is the time you can transplant them to their permanent residence. A good rule of thumb is to begin the seeds about 2 weeks before the outdoor growing season in your area. Before you plant your prized, young plants, make sure that you prepare the new soil with plenty of moisture. Then sit back and watch your plants flourish into beautiful showpieces!