by Susan Klatz Beal

Created on: March 05, 2009   Last Updated: March 25, 2009

There are great advantages to starting seeds indoors, especially for vegetables, because in some cases, it's the only way to ensure that there will be any type of harvest. It doesn't matter what type of seeds you start indoors, the bottom line is that by planning ahead and planting the different types of seeds far enough in advance, you can assure yourself of an abundant harvest.

The general rule of thumb for starting vegetable seeds is that they need to be started a minimum of 8 weeks before they are to be planted outdoors. I prefer to allow ten weeks so that I can get some extra time to harden off the seedlings before planting them outdoors permanently.

CHECKING SEED VIABILITY:

To determine the viability of seeds before starting them, test some of the seeds. Unless you are certain of the date of harvest, it is impossible to know for certain, whether the seeds are viable, and what the rate of germination will be.

Take a moist paper towel and ring out the excess water. Fold the towel in half. Place the seeds in the middle of the divided towel. Then fold the sides over to create a little packet. Then put the seeds in a plastic zip lock baggie. Be sure to label the baggie so you know what seeds are inside.

This can be done with any type of seed. It's a great way to test the germination before planting. Place the baggies in a warm and bright location. Check to see whether the seeds have germinated in a week. It may take two weeks to determine how successfully the seeds germinate.

SOAKING SEEDS:

When it comes to seeds that have an especially hard outer shell, namely peas or beans, it is helpful to soak the seeds for a minimum of 24 hours. The longer the seeds soak, the softer the harder shell will get. Softening the hard outer shell will expedite germination substantially.

SUPPLIES AND OTHER NECESSITIES:

The three most important things that all seeds need in order to germinate are light, warmth and moisture. A warm room with a consistent air temperature is essential. Some sort of grow light is necessary too.

Create a lighting system by purchasing a shop light fixture that has chains that can be raised and lowered. It is possible to create a full spectrum growing light system by using an equal number of cool bulbs and warm bulbs. Look for bulbs with a higher lumen number. They will be brighter.

LIGHT:

The light should be very close to the containers when the seeds are planted. After they germinate, the light can be moved further away. During the germination process, it is probably

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