Seed Starting Check List

Ready to have better success with seed starting? Begin by choosing high quality, fresh seeds.

Check the back of the seed packet. There should be a 2018 date printed on it. This is your assurance that the seed is fresh. 

When you open the seed packet you should find seeds that are uniform in size and color. Starting out, premium seeds will give you better germination rates and stronger seedlings.  

Containers: Plastic seed starting trays and inserts are the more traditional method for starting plants from seed. You fill the plastic cells with seed starting soil, then plant seeds in them. This method works very well and you can choose from a number of different inserts.

An alternative method would be to use peat-based containers. You can choose from a variety of sizes and shapes to start your seeds in. An advantage of growing in peat pots is once your seedlings are ready to be moved to the garden, peat pots can be planted directly in the ground, which reduces transplant shock. 

Domes: Domes help hold in moisture and warmth while your seeds are sprouting. Domes are available in 2" or 7". Once your seeds have sprouted and have two sets of true leaves, remove the domes to allow air circulation.  

Soil-less Seed Starter: now that you have selected your seed starting trays, inserts and domes, pick up some seed starting mix. Use seed starter, not potting soil. Seed starter mix is sterile and holds moisture well.

You'll have much better results with seed germination. It's a good idea to moisten the seed starting medium before you sow your seed.  

Labels: You’ll want to label your trays so you’ll know the type of seed you’ve planted.

Labels are available in a wood or plastic and they can follow your seedlings from the starting tray right into the garden. 

Lights: If you've tried starting seeds before and been disappointed because the plants get tall and leggy, most likely there wasn't enough light for your seedlings. Light is essential for seedlings to grow and develop properly and even the best natural light can leave your young plants with thin, weak stems and pale leaves.  Supplementing the natural light in your grow area doesn’t have to be complicated.

Compact Fluorescent Lights (CFL) will fit a standard light bulb socket. A 23 Watt CFL is equal to a 100-watt incandescent bulb.  These CFLs are full spectrum bulbs, which means they produce light similar to natural daylight. Fluorescent lighting is another option.

T5 high output grow bulbs produce the right light to encourage your seedlings to grow strong and healthy. These T5 systems are complete with reflecting hood, high output bulb and power cord and are available in 24" and 48" lengths.   

Heat Mats: Heat Mats keep the seed starting soil temperature constantly warm, even as the grow room cools off in the evening. Keeping the soil at a constant temperature promotes faster germination, larger root systems and sturdier plants.  

Starting plants from seed is a great way to get exactly the variety of vegetables and tomatoes you want. Using the right seed and seed starting supplies will help insure better, stronger transplants when it comes to time to move your seedlings out into the garden.