Jumpstart the growing season by starting seeds indoors. Some flower and vegetable seeds have a longer maturation period or are sensitive to cooler temperatures. These seeds can benefit greatly from being sown indoors. Which popular seeds are best to start indoors for a jumpstart on the harvest? We'll list a few here.
Why Start Seeds Indoors?
- Extended Growing Season: Starting indoors means you're ahead of the weather, giving plants a longer growing period.
- Controlled Germination Environment: Indoor conditions can be optimized for better germination rates.
- Protection for Young Plants: Seedlings are safeguarded from unpredictable weather and outdoor pests.
Jumpstart the growing season by starting seeds indoors. Some flower and vegetable seeds have a longer maturation period or are sensitive to cooler temperatures. These seeds can benefit greatly from being sown indoors. Which popular seeds are best to start indoors for a jumpstart on the harvest? We'll list a few here.
Why Start Seeds Indoors?
- Extended Growing Season: Starting indoors means you're ahead of the weather, giving plants a longer growing period.
- Controlled Germination Environment: Indoor conditions can be optimized for better germination rates.
- Protection for Young Plants: Seedlings are safeguarded from unpredictable weather and outdoor pests.
How to Start Seeds Indoors
Starting seeds indoors is easy, though it does require knowing the needs of individual plants. Below is a list of popular flowers and vegetables for starting indoors and their starting instructions.
Flowers
- Snapdragons: Begin 8-10 weeks before the last frost. They prefer cooler germination temperatures and need adequate light
- Petunias: Start 10-12 weeks before the last frost. They require a well-lit and warm environment.
- Impatiens: Sow 8-10 weeks prior to the last frost. Warm, moist soil and indirect light are ideal for these flowers.
- Marigolds: Start 6-8 weeks before the last frost, needing a warm, sunny spot to grow.
- Begonias: Start about 12-14 weeks before the last frost. They require a warm environment and light for germination.
Flowers
- Snapdragons: Begin 8-10 weeks before the last frost. They prefer cooler germination temperatures and need adequate light
- Petunias: Start 10-12 weeks before the last frost. They require a well-lit and warm environment.
- Impatiens: Sow 8-10 weeks prior to the last frost. Warm, moist soil and indirect light are ideal for these flowers.
- Marigolds: Start 6-8 weeks before the last frost, needing a warm, sunny spot to grow.
- Begonias: Start about 12-14 weeks before the last frost. They require a warm environment and light for germination.
Vegetables
- Artichokes: Start 8-12 weeks before the last frost. They need a long growing season and plenty of light.
- Leeks: Begin 10-12 weeks before the last frost. They require a cooler germination environment.
- Celery: Start 10-12 weeks before the last frost. Consistent moisture and light are crucial for celery.
- Tomatoes: Start 6-8 weeks before the last frost. Provide warmth and lots of light for best growth.
- Peppers: Begin 8-10 weeks before the last frost. Like tomatoes, they require warmth and a lot of light. Broccoli: Start 6-8 weeks before the last frost. Keep them in a cooler spot than tomatoes and peppers.
- Lettuce: Start 4-6 weeks before the last frost. They prefer cooler temperatures and moderate light.
Indoor Growing Tips
- Right Soil: Use a sterile, seed-starting mix to prevent disease.
- Lighting: Seedlings generally need 12-16 hours of direct light daily.
- Temperature: Keep the germination environment warm, typically between 65-75F.
- Watering Technique: Maintain moist soil, but avoid overwatering to prevent diseases.
- Acclimatize Seedlings: Gradually expose your plants to outdoor conditions to toughen them up for transplanting.
Starting your seeds indoors is a step towards a bountiful harvest and successful gardening season. With these tips and the right selection of seeds, your garden is poised for an excellent start.
