Starting seeds indoors

The main benefit for starting seeds indoors is that in cooler climates it will extend the growing season. Some plants for example tomatoes, peppers, and eggplant require a longer growing season.

Small flower seeds also germinate and grow better if started indoors in perfect growing conditions rather than the hostile outdoor environment.

Generally, seeds should be started 6-8 weeks prior to planting. There are, of course, exceptions to the rule.

Here is how to get started

Start with fresh seeds to get the best germination rate. For the novice there are grow kits available, although I don't think they are necessary.

You'll need containers flats, pots or clean plastic food containers with drainage holes.

If you are re-using an old container clean it with a 10% bleach solution to kill any microbes.

Use sterile soil mix - pre-moisten the soil and place in container. Plant the seeds according to package directions.

After planting, water in seeds just enough to keep them moist and cover the top with plastic to provide humidity until germination takes place.

Some seeds germinate best with bottom heat. Warm weather crops such as peppers and eggplant need 78-80 degrees for good germination which should take about 3 weeks. Germination time varies for different seeds. Set your container on top of a refrigerator, radiator or a heating pad.

If using a heating pad, make sure you control the temperature so as not to cook your seeds.

Once the first leaves (cotyledons) appear, remove the plastic and move the container to a sunny window. When they are about 2 inches tall transplant seedlings from a community flat to individual pots. Bury them down to the first set of true leaves for stockier plants.

Provide even moisture; (do not over water or let plants sit in water) plenty of light and fertilizer (10-10-10). If you cannot provide enough light add a grow light or fluorescent shop fixture for additional light (16-18 hrs a day). Not enough light can result in leggy and spindly plants.

Before you set your plants in the garden, they need to adapt to the outside temperature. When temperature reaches 60 degrees, start bringing your seedling outdoors for a few hours each day gradually increasing the time with each subsequent day. This will toughen up your plants and make planting into the garden an easier transition.

Garden tip: If you would like to sterilize your own potting soil mix, place soil in an oven proof container and cover with aluminum foil bake @180 degrees for 35-45 minutes. Be sure to open the windows as this will have a disagreeable odor.