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Starting garden plants from seed can be satisfying way to grow food, herbs and flowers. Below we will go through the steps to have a successful start, but first, why should you start from seed and what are some of the draw backs?
Reasons to grow your own vegetables from seed:
Quality of care-you know how the plant was treated from soil, fertilizer, container type and more.
Choose your varieties of plants-you can often find more interesting varieties if you are willing to start from seed.
Control over the type of seed-Is it heirloom, open pollinated, non-GMO or organic?
You can start growing early to get a head start on your garden.
Lower cost-you can buy a packet of seeds for the price of one start at the store. This is often best if you are doing some scale (share with friends!)
While starting your own seeds has many benefits, it's does take some work and consideration. There are supplies you will need, space to grow, time commitment to care for the seeds and some other complications like making sure you have good air flow, light and prevent mold growth. Read on for tips on making your garden grow from seeds!
How to start seeds
1. Choosing Seeds to start
Select seeds based on your climate and growing conditions.
Consider the type of plants you want to grow (vegetables, flowers, herbs). Grow things you like to eat, provide beauty or compliment your kitchen.
Check for seed viability and expiration dates.
Learn if it's a plant that likes to be started indoors or should be direct sown once the weather has warmed.
2. Gather Supplies
Seed trays or pots. This can be done on a budget if you are creative with your containers. Think reused egg cartons, toilet paper rolls, yogurt containers, etc.
Seed starting mix (light, well-draining soil).
Labels for marking plant varieties
Watering can or spray bottle
Plastic wrap or humidity dome (optional)
3. Prepare the Seed Starting Mix
Moisten the seed starting mix before filling trays or pots.
Fill containers, leaving about 1/2 inch of space at the top.
Lightly tamp down the soil to remove air pockets.
4. Planting Seeds
Follow the seed packet instructions for planting depth.
Place seeds in the soil and cover lightly with soil mix.
Label each container with the plant name and date of planting.
Not sure when to plant your seeds so they will be ready at the right time? Check out this handy guide or get more sophisticated with this calculator.
5. Watering
Water gently to avoid displacing seeds.
Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.
Use a spray bottle for delicate seedlings.
6. Providing Light
Place seedlings in a bright location with at least 12-16 hours of light per day.
Consider using grow lights if natural light is insufficient.
Rotate trays to ensure even light exposure.
7. Temperature and Humidity
Maintain a warm temperature (65°F to 75°F) for optimal germination.
Use a humidity dome to retain moisture until seeds germinate. This can be as simple as the top of a clear soda bottle over a pot or plastic food wrap over a container.
Remove the dome once seedlings emerge to prevent mold.
8. Thinning Seedlings
Once seedlings develop true leaves, thin them to prevent overcrowding.
Remove weaker seedlings, leaving the strongest ones to grow.
9. Transplanting
When seedlings have a few sets of true leaves, they are ready to be transplanted.
Harden off seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions.
Transplant into larger pots or directly into the garden once the danger of frost has passed. Find your last frost date here. But be sure to watch your forecast at that time too!
10. Maintenance
Continue to water and provide light as needed.
Fertilize with a diluted liquid fertilizer every few weeks.
Monitor for pests and diseases, taking action as necessary.
Starting plants from seed can be a rewarding experience that allows you to grow a variety of plants tailored to your preferences. By following these steps, you can successfully nurture your seedlings from germination to transplanting. Let us know how it goes!
Additional Resources
Here are some additional resources that you may find useful as well:
Seed Savers Exchange-Decorah, Iowa dedicated to heirloom and open pollinated seeds
Johnny's Selected Seeds-many organic and interesting varieties
ISU Extension-Seed starting guide with many refrernce materials
Hoksey Native Seeds-Native prairie seeds from Lynnville, Iowa
Garden Variety Podcast-Iowa Public Radio show and podcast on all things gardening
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