31 May Tricks to Start Seeds Indoors

Posted at 15:57h in Blog by

Have you ever thought of growing your own veggies? Well, it has its own perks! It is a healthier option and also a less expensive alternative to store-bought ones. Moreover, for gardeners, it is inherently satisfying. However, a large, rich green garden in a metropolitan city is considered a luxury now a days. Also, due to busy work schedule and changing lifestyle, gardeners hardly get time to spend with their little green friends. But just because they do not have time and space to keep more than hundred plants alive in their garden, does not mean they cannot start seeding indoors. So, what are you waiting for? We are back with some amazing expert advices to let you bring the nature inside your home!

For this, you do not need a huge balcony or terrace. All you need is a little bit of time, space and dedication for your little and beautiful green friends. Bringing them inside your home can be a wonderful gift to yourself and also for all your favourite green species. We suggest you few names of the plants that can be grown indoors with any hesitation.

Best seeds to start indoors

Choose your veggies on the basis of what your family eat and purchase the most. High quality and organic seeds are highly recommended for getting the desired results. For the ones living in cold climates, it is beneficial to start planting a wide variety of plants indoors for shorter growing season. So, you can choose from a long list of plants given below;

  • Tomatoes
  • Tomatillo
  • Parsley
  • Peppers
  • Kale
  • Dill
  • Eggplant
  • Cilantro
  • Cauliflower
  • Brussels Sprouts
  • Cabbage
  • Broccoli
  • Basil

If you are not sure about when to show off your indoor gardening skills, then we have some suggestions for this as well. As per thumb rule, plant your seeds indoors between six to eight weeks from the average date of winter in your area. Start off by assembling your gardening kit, tools and materials so that you have everything near you. Before you start seeding, make sure your read the directions on the package thoroughly. It will give you an idea of how to chill, soak or scratch your seeds before planting. The next step is to place the potting mixture into a big container, mixing it well with warm water.

Make sure to fill your seed containers with this mixture to just below the rim. It is highly crucial to read the directions on each seed’s variety and follow it in an appropriate manner. For bigger seeds, you can use the eraser on your pencil’s end to gently press them into the soil. Place a layer of plastic wrap over each tray and by using a skewer, poke a multitude of holes to allow air circulation. Well, now you have to water them very carefully, as over-watering can displace the seeds. To sprout your seeds, the optimal temperature range is between 65 and 75 degrees and bottom heat is the best. So, you can place the tray on top of your refrigerator or you can also opt for a heat mat, your call!

Once your little seedlings begin to poke through the soil, remove the plastic wrap and ensure the potting mixture remains damp. It’s time to move your trays to a south facing window or you can also place them under a grow light. However, we suggest you to choose grow lights over natural light as 15-16 hours of light is required for your seedlings’ optimal growth. Once your seedlings have established their second set of leaves, it’s time to resettle them into individually prepared pots and ensure the pots are filled with potting soil.

The new pots should be placed in bright, yet indirect light to allow them adjust. Now, it is important to understand that the first set of leaves are cotyledons, which is a part of the seed. Almost all the vegetable seedlings will have two cotyledons followed by the first set of true leaves. However, if you want to transplant them outdoors, you should allow the seedlings to harden a bit. You can do this by watering the plants less, during their last week indoors. Prior to transplanting, begin relocating the pots outdoors in a covered area for hours, keeping the soil moist.

Few tips for successful gardening

  • To prevent under or over watering, try to water your seedlings from the bottom.
  • Use a permanent marker or popsicles to label your containers well.
  • Most importantly, resist the urge of planting too many seedlings.
  • Keep an eye on your little green friends to ensure that you are meeting all their demands.
  • To eliminate guesswork, do not forget to use a timer on your grow lights.
  • Want to try your hands at the latest trend of gardening? Contact Gardeza Gardening, as we provide the best consultancy services and gardening solutions at much affordable rates.

Still not sure about starting your seedlings inside? Well, the master gardeners at Gardeza are always there to share their expertise. Contact us, today!