How and When to Start Seeds Indoors: Timing Is Everything
Starting seeds indoors helps your garden start strong and early. Moving plants outdoors requires timing to ensure success. Here's a complete guide on indoor seed starting, including germination and early growth tips.
introduction
Locate Date: Find your region's average last frost date. This date is significant since it indicates when outside planting is safe.
STEP 1
Reverse Calculation: When to start seeds inside, count backward from the last frost. Most seeds require 6-8 weeks of indoor growth before transplanting.
STEP 2
Cool-season crops: Start broccoli, cabbage, and lettuce earlier. Consider starting seeds 8-10 weeks before the last frost.
STEP 3
Warm-season crops: Start tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants 6-8 weeks before the final frost. It takes longer for these plants to mature.
STEP 4
Select high-quality seeds from a reliable source. Check the envelope for planting instructions and timelines.