Luckily, only a few things are required: seed starting mix, seeds, and a container.
You dont need fancy equipment.
Seed starting mix, on the other hand, cant be skipped.
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Plant the Seeds
Next, its time to plant the seeds.
Ideally, seedsshould be startedabout six weeks before thelast frost date in your area.
Fill the containers with your seed starting mix and plant the seeds according to the packet instructions.
Provide the Right Conditions
Planting the seeds is just the first step.
To prepare your seedlings for the garden, they need to be nurtured throughout the process.
For seeds and seedlings sprouted indoors, this means providing theright amount of light, warmth, and water.
Picture a warm, greenhouse-like environment.
Once the seeds have sprouted, however, light becomes more important than maintaining warm temperatures.
At the same time, the soil should be kept evenly moist at all times.
A spray bottle can be helpful when watering the seeds and delicate fresh seedlings.
Once the seeds have sprouted, Spoonmore recommends switching to bottom watering to encourage strong root development.
Except once you plant them,they all die immediately.
Does this sound familiar?
Hardening offis the process of acclimating delicate seedlings sprouted indoors to the relatively harsh outdoor conditions.
It takes about a week, but its an essential part of indoor seed starting that cant be skipped.
Transplanting seedlings too quickly to outdoor conditions can cause shock and stunted growth," Spoonmore says.
“Gradually introducing them to sunlight and outdoor temperatures ensures they thrive.”
Seeds dont come with a guarantee; they come with potential," Nyman says.
“Even if you mess up, youre learning!
Every seed is a leap of faith.
Also, what is the cost of lettuce, a buck fifty a pack?
Its cheaper than therapy and way more fun!
That said, watch out for a few common mistakes as you get started.
However,starting seeds too early is never a good idea.
Germination requires warm temperatures and consistent moisture, whereas seedlings need lots of light and regular watering.
Ive fried my fair share of seedlings by putting them too close to a heat source.
Warmth is important for germination, but once they sprout, theyll need light, Nyman says.
Improper Watering
Bothoverwateringand underwatering are common issues beginners can encounter when starting seeds indoors.
Its a delicate balance, but getting watering right is critical.
Seeds need consistent moisture, but the soil should never be soaked.
Seeds want their soil just right, not too wet, not too dry,” Nyman says.
“If it feels like a wrung-out sponge, youre golden.”
This requires regular monitoring since seedlings absorb moisture quickly, especially when growing in small containers.
Once your seeds have sprouted, you may need to water them daily to ensure they stay alive.
A spray bottle or mister is a great way to water delicate seedlings without flooding the soil.
