Successfully starting seeds indoors will require a few things:
- Container – You can choose to start your seeds in either flats or pots & cell inserts.
- Potting Mix – Use a high-quality, soil free potting mix for seeding. Soil tends to compact and crack and does not retain moisture. Specialized mixes typically contain sphagnum peat moss, perlite, or other fine ingredients to give seedlings the aeration and moisture retention they need for strong development.
- Heat & Light– If you don’t have the luxury of a greenhouse, artificial light and heat are necessities. Heat is required to begin germination. Regular fluorescent lights will work just fine, but specialized grow lights are available which are easier to adjust and position. Lights should be placed as close as possible to the top of the sprouts, approximately 2 inches. You must be able to adjust the height of the light as the sprouts grow. If the light is too far away, your seedlings can become leggy. It’s almost impossible to have too much light, but you can use a light intensity meter to measure exactly how much light your plants are receiving.
- Water before you plant. Allow the potting mix to absorb the moisture. After that, keep the potting mix moist, but not soggy. Room temperature water is best. You can take the guesswork out of watering by using a digital moisture meter.
- Read the requirements on the seed packet.
- Don’t start too early, consider when the seedlings can be moved outdoors to ensure their survival.
- Viable Seeds – Choose only the highest quality seed with excellent germination rates. Check out our selection in store!
Gertens has all the accessories and supplies you need for seed starting. Additional information can be found through the University of Minnesota Extension. The Gerten Experts are available to answer any of your questions.
The experts at Gertens are always available to answer your questions!
