Click below to listen to my 2 min. Garden Bite radio show/podcast: General seed starting
From now to about mid-April you can start planting seeds indoors. Be sure to adjust for YOUR climate zone. I am focusing on zone 4 mostly but that can translate to areas of 3 and 5 also.
- For germination, most seeds need warmth
- For growth, they’ll need light. There’s no need for fancy/expensive grow lights unless you’re growing flowers indoors.
And yes, my 1897 built home tilts! I will have to put some shims on the left side! HA! I’m going to use Coast of Maine seed starting mix. The Burpee brand did NOT work well. As I said on my radio show: “I’m playing around with a whole different set-up in a spare bedroom. Wish me luck on this! It’s cobbled together; but isn’t that how any effort starts???”
- Small containers of any sort, like yogurt containers are good planters but they must be thoroughly cleaned and you need to poke drainage holes in the bottom. Cell packs work well. I like to use peat pots. You can then plant the seedling directly in the ground.
- If your space is a cold room, a heating mat is recommended for tomato and pepper seeds.
- Follow the directions on your seed packet for the germination needs.
- Once your seeds sprout, they all need light. Keep the light about 4 to 6 inches from the tops of your seedlings and on for about 12 to 16 hours a day.
- Use a small fan to gently blow across your seedlings for about an hour a day. This is just a primer for you.
- Check out this comprehensive article about Seed Starting by the University of Minnesota Extension including timing. Adjust timing for your climate!
Below is Audra from Gertens. I’m behind the camera on this one! There are 3 parts should you want to follow along. She has additional information.