Seed Starting Guide: Sow Seeds Indoors for Your Garden

Sowing and Germinating Seeds From Seed Packets

Whether you are new to gardening this season or have been planting for years, starting your seeds can be a little daunting. Although growing a garden with store-bought transplants is just fine, it does not offer you the; cost savings, variety of choices, or control that starting your own seeds indoors does.

Many garden supply stores only offer a few types of tomatoes or peppers each year, even though hundreds of varieties are available. Learning to start your own transplants from seed each year means that you can grow different types chosen for their beautiful colors, unique flavors, and suitability to your precise growing zone.

Starting your own seeds also gives you control over timing. Allowing you to be ready to plant your gorgeous starts outside as soon as the weather permits and not wait until they are available at your local nursery.

Most vegetables and flowers can be started indoors incell traysorsmall potsfor later transplant into your garden. We have compiled a list of everything you need before you gather your seed packets and start seeds indoors. These gardening tips will have you and your plants off to a great start.

Whystart seeds indoors instead of buying transplants?

Starting seeds indoors from a seed packet is much less expensive than buying plants at the nursery. It is also a way to give you control over what nutrients and what pesticides are used in the rearing of your plant. Lastly, the range of varieties available to a gardener to purchase by seed is much more vast than what you will be able to purchase from your local nursery as a seedling.

An added bonus is that once you have seed starting indoors down, you can start saving your own seed from what you grow making it even less expensive to garden. Read more about this in ourHow to Guides on Saving Seed for Next Year’s Garden- Seed Saving 101.

Top 10 Supplies needed for starting seeds indoors

Seed startingcell trays or seed startingpots
Sterile planting media (IE. seed starting soil mix)
Shelf (this can be a basic shelf or anautomated grow rack)
Lights (LEDs or T5 shop lights)
Seeds
Watering Can or Mister
Labels
Oscillating Fan
Heat Mat
Fertilizer (ie. fish fertilizer, compost/worm tea)

HOW DO YOU CREATE A GARDENING PLAN?

Before we get into starting your seed packets, let's talk about creating an overall plan for your garden. Creating a gardening plan can save you a ton of time in the long run. Getting the area plotted out on paper can help you plan in the most straightforward way to manage and harvest.

Make sure that you locate spacing requirements for the plants you are growing.

Along with spacing, it is also an excellent time to consider planting your taller crops in the northern area of your plot and planting smaller plants closer to the southern area of your gardening plot. This will help to prevent shading that could be detrimental to your crops.

For tiny seeds you have saved yourself or any for which the packet does not provide plant spacing it is a good general rule that smaller vegetables be placed 4-6 inches apart while larger crops like broccoli or Brussels sprouts be given 12-18 inches to spread their leaves.

Planting Companions in the Garden

Certain plants can also be planted together to improve their success. Finding plants that grow well together this way is called companion planting. Planting herbs next to strawberries or garlic near your fruit trees can yield benefits for both plants.

An excellent example of this is corn, beans, and squash. Planting these threevegetables together, "The Three Sisters" is a perfect example of companion planting and a traditional method used by many Native American tribes. Squash fills in the ground cover area, shades the soil and helps stabilize the corn plant. The corn acts as a pole for the beans to climb, while the beans fix nitrogen into the soil to help the squash and corn thrive.

Once you have your garden plotted out on paper, decide whether you want to use raised beds or garden rows instead. Raised beds take a bit of work butimprove drainage and accessibilityto the plants. Another option, if you are not interested in building a raised bed, is to grow inlarge grow bags. This is also an excellent option for a rooftop garden or in areas with inadequate or poor soil.

When planning the row spacing, account for a three-foot pathway. Leave enough room next to each of the rows for weeding and harvesting. Planting the rows too densely can prevent weed management, leading to smaller yields.

When growing viningvegetableslike melons, cucumbers, indeterminate tomatoes or squash, the spacing should be increased to plan for sprawl or spacing for a trellis structure. ReadBuilding Trellis for Indeterminate Tomatoesfor more information on the process and when to userolling tomato hooks. You can also usemelon cradlesto support heavier fruits if you are trellising.

HOW DO YOU CHOOSE SEEDS FOR PLANTING?

Choosing which seeds to grow can seem overwhelming for the first-time grower. It is imperative to consider a few things when picking out seed varieties. What types of vegetables do well in your area, and what can you grow indoors?

What if I have leftover seeds from last year?

Most any seed packet will have a date somewhere on the label such as “Packed for 2022.” If your seeds are only a year old go ahead and try planting them.Most seeds are good for one to two years. After that the germination rate will decline sharply. If you have older seeds you wish to use it is a good idea to do a germination test before planting.

How to do a germination test for seeds.

Place 5-10 seeds on a moist paper towel
Keep the paper moist by placing it in a zip top bag.
Check the seeds daily starting at 3 days and continuing for up to 14 days.
Count the number of seeds that sprout and multiply by 20 for five seeds or by 10 for ten seeds. IE. 7 out of 10 seeds germinated you have a germination rate of 70%
Plant as you usually would accounting for germination rate. IE. if your germination rate is 70% you should plant at least 5 seeds if you want to have 3 plants to transplant.

WHEN SHOULD I START PLANTING SEEDS?

After mapping out your garden, find out when the last frost date is in your area and subtract 6-8 weeks from that date. Knowing this date, you will be able to nail down the best timeframe to plant. Planning this will ensure that the seedlings have enough time to develop before the transplant date.

Now that you have your timeframe for planting, it is good to look into different ways togo about starting seeds indoors.Seeds can be propagated incell trays,soil block trays, or even just in small containers. Many find the cell trays to be a very advantageous way to grow more starts in a smaller area. Finding the right size is essential if you are interested in planting into cell trays. Cell tray sizes vary to work with different crops and growth rates. Faster growing crops need larger celled trays that can hold more potting soil to keep growing seedlings longer. While slower growing plants like herbs can be started in smaller cells. For help choosing the right sized cell tray for planting check out this guide onSelecting the Right Cell Tray.

What happens if you plant seeds too early?

Seeds planted too early may require the grower to pot up or transplant into a larger pot or grow bag until it is safe to bring them outdoors. For some in growing zones with a shorter season, this is a regular practice for plants such as peppers, tomatoes, and many flowers to spend a few weeks in a larger container before going outdoors.

WHAT IS THE BEST SOIL MIX FOR STARTING SEEDS?

Choose a good potting quality potting soil with these key features:

Good drainage
PH between 5-6.5
Moisture retention
Allows for airflow

These qualities are essential, but using a clean, seedless mix is equally important when starting new plants. Some key ingredients to look for in potting soil are perlite, vermiculite, peat moss, coconut coir, compost, and a basic fertilizer or ground limestone.

How moist should soil be for seedlings?

The seed starting mix that you use should be slightly wet, but not dripping, like a wrung out sponge. It should hold well together when pressed firmly into your cell tray or pot, but not so saturated that it will not hold any air for the seeds to germinate. This should be the case throughout the entire seed starting process, even after germination. Overwatering will cause an anaerobic environment that will lead to die-off and rot.

How do I stratify seeds?

Stratification of seeds is any process designed to mimic the natural conditions needed to break the seed’s dormancy. Cold stratification, soaking of seeds and scarification are three main methods of stratifying seeds that are used for planting at home. The fourth method of heat stratification is only used for seeds that need to be exposed to high temperatures before germination to simulate a wildfire.

How to use cold stratification when starting seeds.

Many perennials and flowers require a cold stratification process before they can be germinated. We recommend doing this in moistened, fine-grade sand in an airtight container, stored in the fridge for 1-4 months. You will want to check them weekly, and lightly spritz the sand and seal in the moisture. Roses are a common flower that require this type of stratification process.

Do I need to soak my seeds before I plant them?

Larger seeds often do benefit from soaking before planting. If you do decide to presoak your seeds, here are a few things we recommend. First, pre-rinse your seeds before leaving them to soak. The more debris and bacteria you can remove from the seeds before soaking the better. Next, we recommend using filtered water for this process. Using dirty water or chlorinated water from local municipalities are not suggested. Next after you have thoroughly soaked the seeds, drain the water and do a short soak in diluted H2O2 before the final rinse.

After the final rinse plant the seeds as you normally would at a depth one to two times the size of the seed. Some people will choose to presprout the seeds in a colander or moist paper towel. Although this step can help you to have a better idea of germination it is not necessary.

H202 Diluted Solution Recipe (35% diluted to 3%)

1 part 35% Food Grade H202
11 parts H20

How to scarify seeds

One of the most common seeds that benefit from scarification is butterfly peas. The process is straightforward, use a knife to nick the seed or rub it on fine-grade sandpaper. This helps to break the seed's outer coating to allow water to penetrate easier. The process mimics what would naturally occur when an animal sends the seeds through their digestive system. This scarification ensures that you will get better results, as some of the seeds that require this have coatings that are hard for water to penetrate without the process.

HOW TO PLANT INTO CELL TRAYS

For large seeds like peas, beans and squash.

Fill your cell trays halfway full with potting soil. Take another cell tray and stack it on top of the cell tray you are planting into. This will pack down the dirt and create little divots to sow seeds into. Plant 2-3 seeds per cell and cover the entire tray with the other half of the potting soil.

For small seeds like lettuce, brassicas and tomatoes.

Fill your cell trays with potting soil to the top.Take another cell tray and stack it on top of the cell tray you are planting into. This will pack down the dirt and create little divots to sow seeds into. Plant 2-3 seeds per cell and cover with soil aroundone to two times the depth of the longest side of the seed. Meaning for a seed that is 1/4 of an inch long you will cover it with a 1/4 to 1/2 inch of soil.

For all planted seeds.

Water your newly planted seeds liberally. You will then cover it with a humidity dome and place it on your shelf or a heat mat if using one. The humidity dome will maintain the perfect conditions for your seeds to germinate. Be sure to label your seedlings!

Should I cover seeds with plastic wrap?

It is possible to protect your germinating seeds by covering them with plastic wrap. While this will help keep some of the soil heat in, it will not protect your seedlings from pests very effectively and can only be used once before discarding. Instead, we recommend investing in a reusable humidity dome.

GERMINATING SEEDS WITH A HUMIDITY DOME

Once you have planted your seeds into your cell trays, it is wise to cover them with a humidity dome to maintain the best conditions for your seed during germination. Humidity domes increase germination success when used correctly.

Keep the humidity dome on the newly seeded tray until the first sign of germination. After that, remove the dome and set the tray under the lights. It is essential not to leave the humidity dome on past the first sign of germination, as mold can occur. Once under the lights, seedlings will need airflow and water.

How do you keep seedlings warm?

Seedlings should be grown in a closed environment that is at least above freezing. The soil temperature needs to be in thetemperature range between 68 degrees F and 80 degrees F. Both grow lights and heat mats help maintain this optimal range. Try to find a heat mat with a thermostat and temperature controller for best results. Check out this article for information on how to use a heat mat for seed starting.

How long does it take for seeds to sprout indoors?

Typically vegetable seeds sprout in 24-72 hrs under the right conditions. There are some fruits, flowers and herbs that can take up to 14 days to germinate. Consider pre-soaking your seeds for faster germination if you want to speed the process. If you are germinating seeds in cooler soil temperatures, germination rates can slow substantially. For best results, use supplemental heating like a heat mat, and keep the humidity levels consistent by using a humidity dome for the highest germination rates.

What do I do after my seeds germinate?

After your seeds sprout, remove your humidity dome and place directly under grow lights. Continue to keep the soil moist but not saturated until you are ready to harden off your seedlings.

Do you need a grow light to start seeds indoors?

Setting up an ideal growing area for seedlings does not need to be expensive. Direct lighting for your growing seedlings is recommended for 14-16 hours a day. This can be done with a simpleled light hung around 6 inches above the seed tray. A baker's rack works very well for this.

The three most important things that a seedling needs are proper airflow, adequate light, and a consistent temperature range between 68 degrees F and 80 degrees F. All of these conditions can be obtained with the appropriate equipment. Many start their seedlings in a garage or basem*nt. These conditions can be created using heat mats,led lighting, and air circulatingfans.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU WATER SEEDLINGS?

Seedlings should be watered daily. We believe the best method of watering seedlings is to bottom water them using1020 trays. This method allows for the soil to wick the moisture from the bottom. Bottom-watering is not only time-saving, but it prevents any damage from happening to the newly emerged seedlings. If you prefer to topwater, find a fine mist spray bottle and check your seedlings twice daily to prevent drying out. Check out theEasiest Way to Water Your Seedlingsfor suggestions on watering newly germinated seeds.

What helps seeds grow?

In the beginning stage of the growth of your seeds, you will need to make sure that the seed stays moist and is in the correct temperature range. A heat mat with a thermostat used with a humidity dome helps ensure the sown seeds remain in theoptimal temperature and humidity range. Once the seeds germinate, thin out the competing sprouts, so there is only one in each cell plug or pot. If you want your seedlings to thrive, a basic fertilizer such as worm compost tea or a seaweed/fish fertilizer will give your seedlings a boost. Taking care to provide your seedlings with ample light (around 14 hrs/day) that is not too far away will also help the success of your plant seedlings.

WHEN TO TRANSPLANT SEEDLINGS FROM A CELL TRAY?

Typically your seeds willstay in theirseed tray for 6-8 weeks. After this period, you will either need to transplant into larger pots or transplant the new seedlings outside. Check your seed instructions and pay attention to your frost dates before transplanting young plants outside. A developed root system needs to be in place before a successful transplant of a young plant can happen. Another thing to look for is the development of the "true" leaves. Check outWhen to Transplant Seedlings for more information on when to move your seedlings out of the cell trays.

What happens if you transplant seedlings too early?

Transplanting seedlings too early can mean that you are putting weak seedlings at risk of getting hit with a late-season frost. Always make sure to consider your growing zone and if in doubt, hold back your seedlings a bit longer.

What time of day should I transplant seedlings outdoors?

It is best to transplant young seedlings early in the morning. You want to avoid direct sun hitting fragile root systems of these new seedlings, soavoid afternoon transplants. If you decide to plant in the afternoon, use a bag or a cover to protect the roots and have a spray bottle handy to rewet the seedling's root system to avoid allowing them to dry out.

*Check out the list of growing zone guides at the bottom of this article.

HARDENING OFF SEEDLINGS

What does hardening off your seedlings mean?

Before transplanting your seedlings, exposing them to the conditions they will have to survive outdoors is important. This is called hardening off. Hardening off your transplants will help to prevent transplant shock. Expose your baby plants to outside conditions for about a week before planting. For more information on the process of planting out young seedlings check outTransplanting Essentials.

5 easy steps to harden off your seedlings before transplanting.

Place your tray of seedlings outside in an area protected from intense wind and direct sunlight for 2-3 hours a day for 3 days. Remember to bring them back inside at night.
For the next 3-4 days place the seedlings outside in the mornings and bring them back in at night. Heat loving crops can be in direct sun for this step but cooler season crops should still have at least midday shade.
For 1-2 days before planting leave your trays in their protected space outside overnight.
Stop watering your seedlings 18-24 hours before you plan to plant them. (This makes it easier to remove them from the trays.
Plant out your seedlings and water well. If a late frost is predicted you can always cover your new plants with afrost blanketto protect them while they get established.

How long does it take to harden off seedlings?

It is recommended that you allow at least a week for the process of hardening off seedlings. You will do this gradually to avoid shocking the seedlings. Start by setting your seedlings outdoors during the daytime only for a few days. Slowly build up to leaving them outdoors full-time. Because they do not have the protection of being planted in the ground, be sure to avoid leaving them in direct sunlight while in their containers unless you can keep an eye on them to avoid having them dry out in a heatwave. Place them in an area with plenty of shade to prevent “frying” your delicate plant starts if you are gone for extended periods or during the hottest part of the day. You will also want to keep them protected from the wind.

TRANSPLANTING SEEDLINGS OUTDOORS

After hardening off your seedlings, it is time to plant. Take care to water your seedlings before and after planting them. Some useplug poppersor widger dibbersto remove plugs from cell trays. You will find what works best for you. Start growing directly into your garden space, paying particular attention to air pockets in the soil. If you are using landscape fabric, you will want to install that beforehand. Plant the plug into the soil until the plug shape is not visible, leaving no gaps. Water in the transplant and continue to water often as the roots start to establish. Always plant during cooler times of the day. It is best to plant in the early morning or in the evening to prevent sun damage to the root systems. Another option is to wait for a cloudy day to do your planting, giving you and your new baby plants a little respite from direct sun. After transplanting, it may be a good idea to cover the rows while your seedlings are at their most vulnerable stage. Check out theUltimate Guide to Ground Covers on the Farm for more information on what can be used to protect your growing space.

PROTECTING SEEDLINGS

Those newly planted seedlings need to be protected from wind, insects, and birds.Insect nettingis an excellent tool for this. Not only does insect netting create a barrier around the plants, but it also cuts down on diseases caused by insect infestations. Frost blanket can also be used to protect seedlings and plants if late frosts are predicted in your area or just to give them and extra bit of heat overnight.

Shade cloth or nettingis another option to consider when looking for protection for your new transplants. Shade cloth not only protects your plants from sunburn but it helps them to utilize UV rays better. The shade cloth's reflective coating helps diffuse the light into a more usable form for plants, improving their growth and health overall. Shade cloth also helps to keep ambient temperatures lower, helping lower the stress for the plants.

Beneficial insects are also a good way to protect your seedlings. The use of beneficial bugs helps keep pest numbers at a manageable level without risking the lives of pollinators by using chemicals. ReadThe Importance of Beneficial Insectsto learn more about beneficial insects and how to use them.

Growing your own transplants for gardening success

Starting your own garden from seed is intensely rewarding. Not only will you have plants ready to go into the garden when you are ready, you won’t be reliant on your local garden center or nursery to get your food growing.

The wide variety of interesting flavors, colors and textures of vegetables and fruits available to you when starting your own is astounding. Your hottest of hot ghost peppers or habaneros will amaze your tastebuds. Having not only red; but purple, green, orange, and even black tomatoes will liven up any plate. You will be able to find early lettuces and late pumpkins to extend your growing season.

Starting your own seeds from scratch also means you can save the best of your garden every year to grow again. In this way you will create your own seed stock specially adapted for your microclimate.

*Here are some growing zone guides:

Last Spring Freeze Map from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

https://www.ncdc.noaa.gov/news/when-expect-your-last-spring-freeze

USDA Plant Hardiness Zones

https://planthardiness.ars.usda.gov/

First and Last Frost Dates by Zip Code

https://garden.org/apps/frost-dates

Seed Starting Guide: Sow Seeds Indoors for Your Garden - Bootstrap Farmer (2024)