Whats the BEST way to start seeds indoors?

[MRAHoffman]

I JUST got my first seed order from Seeds of Change and NOW I want to know the best way to start my seeds indoors? What containers to use (egg cartons?) Any tips? Thank you for all your help. Take care and God bless.

[mzpepper]

I think that the best things to remember when starting seeds indoors is to use seed starting mixture and to water from the bottom. I have not had problems regarding the containers that I have used when starting seeds. I use a mix of previously used plastic containers, peat pots, egg cartons, toilet paper rolls, whatever is handy. Good luck in your efforts!!

[The Muse]

I'll admit that my way isn't the cheapest way, but I've had a 100% germination rate this year.

I'm going to be transplanting this week and putting things under a grow light. Then I'll start some more seeds. The last frost date here is May 26th, and I'm pleased to be so far along.

[suki]

You can germinate seeds in paper towels that have been wetted with water and a drop or two of bleach, then place in a ziplock bag. Transplant the sprouts when they are small and just sprouting.

Any soil medium is fine for starting seeds, some are better... but any will work. Pots are a matter of preference. We don't like egg cartons because transplanting to bigger pots is difficult and they are too little for the plants to get to a good transplanting size without having to move them... and they dry out quickly. Others love them and have had much success with them.

Entire books have been written on the topic. There's more information available than we could possibly throw at you here. Several threads already discuss seed starting and there's a plethora of info available. Basic principles include warmth and light.

Good luck!

[pinetree]

OK, this year I kinda cheated. The kids bought me a Jiffy Greenhouse from walmart, I think they paid 5.99 for it. It has 72 little peat pots, has a bottom tray to keep the plants moist and a plastic see thru lid to cover them with.

I tried it and to my surprise all of the seeds are up and growing, I've transplanted alot of them into the newspaper pots until I can get them outside. There are so many ways to start seeds, just pick one you like & try it. Last year I used the newspaper pots, Durgan has a pretty neet set-up he uses also.

[champagnium]

Hey Pinetree...that's what I just finished using!! Hopefully they'll be productive!!!

[Gardengal18]

I got one of these for $35 at Lowes a few weeks ago.


http://www.target.com/Misco-Home-Gar...e=1&rh=&page=1

It fits perfect in my kitchen and it has wheels so I can roll it around to the living room patio doors when the sun is on that side of the house.

I've kept all sorts of pots from previous years plant purchases, butter tubs work well too, and then put some soil, plant food and then the seeds in each pot. Labeled each pot by using ice cream sticks for each pot and then I bottlespray each pot daily. Everything is "popping up" in my little greenhouse. I have to say it was an excellent investment, and during the winter it can be taken apart easily and store flat, or I could probably try even doing some container gardening in it?

[Ciamak1020]

I just planted my seeds for my first garden. We went to Home Depot and asked if we could have the empty containers that the plants come in. They said sure. That's how I'm starting all of my seeds. Each holds about 2 cups of soil so I could keep them in there for a little while. I'll also keep them to reuse for years to come.

[Durgan]

http://www.durgan.org/URL/?Seeds 17 February 2009 General Seed Starting Method.
In the home usually an ideal germination area is not available. This method is close to having 100% germination, all things being equal. I never use grow lights, but utilize natural light as much as possible.