by Becca Badgett

Created on: February 12, 2010

Record snowfall, freezing temperatures and cabin fever have many gardeners dreaming of spring and the joys of the garden. Get a jump start on that spring gardening by starting seeds indoors. Not all seeds may be successfully started inside, but the list of those which can be is long enough to give most gardeners a jolt of spring-fever.

Start Edibles From Seed

As more home gardeners replace flowering plants with edibles, thoughts may turn to vegetables and herbs. Lemon flavored herbs such as lemongrass, lemon balm and lemon basil are easy to grow and provide an enticing aroma in the garden. These may be combined with annual and perennial flowering blooms.

Many varieties of tomato and pepper seeds can be started indoors. These can save the gardener cash, and provide that special home-grown flavor. Stagger plantings by a few weeks for fresh vegetables during the entire season. Be sure to plant varieties your family likes to eat!

Germination

Plant single seeds in peat pots or flats filled with a pre-moistened germinating mix. There are several different brands at your local garden center. Mix the germinating media with enough water to moisten thoroughly. The soil should form a ball when squeezed, but should not be dripping water. When possible, it is best to moisten the mix the night before planting. Fluff before using and fill containers, being careful not to compact the soil. Root development occurs most effectively when soil is porous and not compacted.

 A rule of thumb for planting depth is the bigger the seed the more deeply it should be planted.  Tiny seeds should be laid on top of the planting medium. Some seeds will benefit from a thin layer of vermiculite on top.

After planting, you may want to cover the container with a dome lid or simple, clear plastic wrap to retain moisture. Germination requires warmth; a heating mat may be used for this purpose or containers may be placed in a warm place out of direct sunlight. First roots (radicles) develop at this time. Maintain moisture by misting.

Growing On

Once the seeds have sprouted, more sunlight is required for their development. Some species like to dry out slightly at this stage and may benefit from a weak mixture of liquid fertilizer. When seedlings are established, with at least two set of leaves, they may be moved to larger containers or outside beds.

Most plants prefer gradually being introduced to the outside conditions, starting with a few hours and lengthening the time as they grow. This hardening off process makes for a healthier, happier plant that will be a more optimum producer.

Experiment with starting seeds indoor, plant in cycles, and enjoy the fruits (and vegetables) of your labor throughout the growing season.

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