Indoor Seed Starting

For some of you around the US it's COLD.  Just because it's cold outside doesn't mean you can grow.  There are many ways to start seeds indoors and below is how I like to get a jump on Spring Planting!

First we start with heirloom, non-GMO seeds with a GREAT germination rate 

from Mary's Heirloom Seeds.  This week I'm starting

Hopi Blue Corn
Genovese and Purple Opal Basil
Long Island Brussels Sprouts
Trinidad Scorpion Pepper
Chocolate Habanero and Lemon Yellow Habanero
Roma Tomato and Black Cherry Tomato
Sage and Louffa

I prefer to soak all of my seeds before planting.  This can increase the germination rate and decrease the amount of time that the seeds take to germinate.

The easiest method is using Coconut Coir Pellets.  They are much less mess and when seedlings are ready, the entire pellet is planted into the ground.  That means little to no root disruption and no buying or fussing with dirt! 

I bought large"lasagna trays" from costco for about $8 for 30.  Old baking pans work as well.  I re-use these trays over and over!  Place your Coconut Coir Pellets in the tray and add water.  For 35 pellets I added about 9 cups of water.  

Coconut Coir Pellets take approximately 5 minutes to expand.  Gently squeeze them to see if they're ready before planting your seeds.  If they are too stiff then they probably need a bit more water.  Also, you can gently pull open the mesh from the top to make planting a bit easier.

I did this all in our new kitchen!  It's THAT easy!

Next, plant your seeds.  This can be tricky with smaller seeds but I know it can be done.  I just planted over 200 seeds!

Do you have a warm place with natural light?  
It's warm enough outside my place to put my trays out.  If it's still very cold at your place then you might consider an inexpensive indoor light.
*Affiliate links below.  If you choose to purchase using these links I might earn a small commission.  Every penny counts!*

Hydrofarm JSV2 2-Foot Jump Start T5 Grow Light System


EnviroGro FLT24 2-Ft, 4-Tube Fixture, T5 Bulbs Included




I've used this light below and it works great!

Hydrofarm FLCDG125D Fluorowing Compact Fluorescent System



iPower GLT5XX4 4ft Head Start T5 Fluorescent Grow Light System with Stand Rack for Seed Starting

There you have it!  

Thanks for stopping by and if you have additional questions please feel free to ask.

HAPPY PLANTING!

Sign up for our E-Newsletter

HTML Form Generator