The 3 most important parts of seed starting

Every year when I dig out my seed starting supplies, including trays, pots, and seeds, I get really amped that spring is right around the corner.

Here in 2024, this weird winter did result in me starting my first seeds a few weeks earlier, in mid February. I am still skeptical that I’ll be able to bump up my planting schedule outdoors, but we will see how the spring progresses.

I use 6 packs and soil with an organic fertilizer when planting my seeds. I water them in thoroughly, add a clear cover over the top before putting them under my grow lights.

The 3 biggest things to consider when starting seeds:

Light is the most important factor. Seeds will grow skinny, weak, and leggy if they do not have enough light above them. I use LED shop lights, both 5000 and 10000 lumens that I hang about 6 inches above the trays after I plant them.

Heat will stimulate a faster germination rate. I bought 4 heat mats a few years ago which I rotate underneath the newly planted seeds until they germinate. I have learned that crops such as lettuce, broccoli, and cabbage can germinate solely with the shop lights, but peppers much prefer the heat mat for germination.

Regular watering will keep things growing. The bigger the plants, the more water they will need. Even in the small 6 pack cells, I water on a daily basis. I have learned that the bright light will often dry out the soil quickly as well, so a daily watering until the soil is a dark brown.