STARTING SEEDS
Step 1-Planting the Seeds

Thoroughly saturate the medium in which you are planting the seed into with plain water prior to planting. Drain off any excess water by tilting the tray. Remember, place the seed depth by the size of the seed, except for impatiens, petunias seeds which requires light to germinate, or SEE OUR GROWING GUIDE FOR SPECIFIC INFORMATION. Also, see our Vegetable or Herb Seeds.  Pelletized seeds work well but may need to be pressed into each hole. Remember to stick a plant label into the beginning of the row of each new variety that you plant as you go along.

Step 2 - Keep Seeds Moist and Warm

Keeping the seeds evenly moist and warm is important for good seed germination. A plastic humidity dome may be placed over the tray until the seeds begin to germinate. Remove the dome at least twice a day to allow fresh air to circulate around the seedlings. As soon as the seeds begin to sprout, remove the dome.

The best temperature for seed starting is between 70 and 78 degrees. Most seeds will germinate at temperatures a bit lower, however, they will germinate faster with warmer temperatures. Many types of seeds, such as tomatoes and peppers, require warm root zone temperatures to germinate. This may be achieved by the use of a propagation heat mat. Heat mats are available with or without a thermostat. The newer types of heat mats are less expensive, and are calibrated to raise the temperature approximately 10-15 degrees above room temperature. This works well. However, be sure to check periodically to be sure that your seedlings do not get too warm. Also, adding heat will cause the water in your seedling soil to evaporate faster, so check the water more often. If you feel that your seedlings are getting too warm, create an air space between the tray and heat mat. Be sure that the temperature does not exceed 80 degrees. Larger heat mats with external thermostats are another option.

Step 3 - Provide Adequate Lighting

Lighting for seedlings is extremely important. If you have a greenhouse, conditions are ideal for seed starting. Indoors, fluorescent growlights may be used. You will need to keepfluorescent lightingdirectly over each flat no more than 6 inches above the trays. Once the seedlings are between 4"and 6" they will require more light.

Step 4 - Care of the Seedlings

After the first true leaves appear, remove the less vigorous of the two seedlings in with scissors. Begin to fertilize the seedlings with quarter strength fertilizer. I prefer to use fertilizer every other time.

Step 5 - Harden Off Seedlings

Seedlings need to adjust to outdoor growing conditions gradually. Full sun, excessive wind, and hard rain can do damage to young seedlings. Move them outside to a protected area and gradually increase their exposure to the elements. Move them indoors at night until the nighttime temperatures are above 45-50 degrees.

Step 6 - Transplant Seedlings

Once your plants have been hardened off, transplant  them into your garden or container. When transplanting, keep in mind the size of the mature plants to avoid overcrowding. To reduce transplant shock, water plants well.