Seed Starting Basics

Seed starting is a necessary part of gardening and flower farming that offers tons of advantages for flower lovers. By starting the germination process indoors or in a controlled environment, such as a greenhouse, you can gain control over the early stages of a plant's life cycle. Think: no more throwing seeds out into the garden, seeing if they will sprout. Starting seeds indoors and growing them up before planting them out is helpful, because you know exactly how many plants you’re going to have. Also, doing seed starting early, indoors, can give you a huge head start on the growing season! This helps to extend the cultivation period to have blooms earlier in the growing season.

Starting Plants from Seeds:

Starting plants from seed fosters a deeper understanding of plant biology and horticulture, because you get to witness the complete life cycle from germination to maturity of your plants. It almost feels like magic! Additionally, starting from seeds gives you access to a larger amount of plant varieties, including heirlooms and a few unique selections not commonly found as established plants at nurseries. Ultimately, starting plants from seeds gives flower growers more flexibility, knowledge, and a sense of connection to the plants they’re cultivating.

Where to Begin with Seed Starting

Selecting the Right Seeds:

• Choose Varieties Suitable for Your Region and Climate:

  Consider local climate conditions and conditions in your own growing space such as temperature, sunlight, and humidity.

  Research plant hardiness zones to match varieties that can grow in your region.

  Check seed packets for information on ideal growing conditions.

Essential Tools and Supplies:

• Seed Trays, Pots, and Containers:

  Choose containers with drainage holes to prevent seedlings from getting waterlogged.

  Use trays for easy organization and transportation of seedlings.

  For home gardeners, opt for biodegradable pots that can be planted directly into the soil to minimize transplant shock. For larger scale flower farming, uses a butter knife to pry the seedling out of the seed staring cell tray.

• Quality Seed Starting Mix:

  Select a sterile and well-draining seed starting mix to prevent diseases and provide proper aeration.

  Look for mixes with a balanced blend of peat moss, vermiculite, and perlite.

  Avoid using regular garden soil, as it can be too heavy and may harbor pathogens.

• Proper Lighting and Temperature Requirements:

  Provide adequate light with fluorescent or LED grow lights if natural sunlight is insufficient.

  Monitor and maintain consistent temperatures for germination, typically between 70-80°F (21-27°C).

  Adjust lighting height and duration as seedlings grow to prevent leggy growth.

Indoor Seed Starting:

Creating a Dedicated Seed Starting Area:

• Designate a well-lit and warm area for indoor seed starting, such as a windowsill, greenhouse, or under grow lights.

• Consider using a waterproof tray to contain any water spills and keep the area tidy.

Timing and Scheduling for Successful Germination:

• Calculate the ideal germination time by working backward from your region's last expected frost date.

• Consult seed packets for specific germination timelines and instructions.

• Use a seed starting calendar to plan when to sow seeds based on the desired transplant date.

Outdoor Seed Starting:

Direct Sowing in the Garden:

• Choose plants that are well-suited for direct sowing, such as sunflowers, cosmos, zinnias, etc.

• Prepare the garden bed by clearing debris and loosening the soil.

• Follow seed packet instructions for planting depth and spacing, and water the area regularly until seeds germinate.

Soil Preparation & Care:

Nutrient Availability: Ensure the soil is rich in essential nutrients, as seedlings rely on these nutrients during early growth.

Texture and Aeration: Choose a well-draining seed starting mix with a fine texture to promote root development and prevent waterlogging.

pH Level: Check and adjust the pH level of the soil to create an optimal environment for seed germination and seedling growth.

Watering & Humidity Control:

• Water gently to avoid displacing seeds or compacting the soil.

• Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged, to support germination and early growth.

• Use a watering can with a fine nozzle for precision

• Maintain a consistent humidity level in the seed starting area, especially for indoor germination.

• Use a humidity dome or cover trays with plastic wrap to create a greenhouse effect.

• Ventilate the area regularly to prevent fungal issues and promote healthy air circulation.

Identify When Your Seedlings Are Ready to be Transplanted Outside:

True Leaves Stage: Seedlings are typically ready for transplanting when they have developed their first fours sets of leaves.

Root Development: Check for a well-established root system by gently removing a seedling from its container to inspect root growth.

The Bigger the Better: Even though little seedlings are okay to be transplanted outdoors, the bigger you can grow your little seedlings before you transplant outdoors, the better.

Before Transplanting, Get Your Seedlings Ready Via the Hardening Off Process

What is the Hardening Off Process? It’s the gradual exposure to outside growing conditions. The plants will literally start out tender and with exposure to outside elements, will begin to feel stiff to the touch.

Start Slowly: Gradually introduce seedlings to outdoor conditions by placing them in a sheltered (protected from too much wind), shaded area for short periods. Example: Day 1 = 1 hour; Day 2 = 2 hours, etc.

Increase Exposure Time: Slowly extend the time seedlings spend outdoors over the course of 1-2 weeks.

Adjust Light Levels: Gradually expose seedlings to direct sunlight, starting with filtered light and progressing to full sun exposure.

Importance of Acclimating Seedlings Before Transplanting:

Prevents Transplant Shock: Hardening off helps seedlings acclimate to the differences in temperature, light, and wind between indoor and outdoor environments, reducing the risk of transplant shock.

Promotes Stronger Growth: Seedlings that undergo a hardening-off process tend to develop stronger stems and roots, enhancing their ability to withstand outdoor conditions.

Minimizes Stress: Acclimating seedlings gradually minimizes stress, allowing them to adjust to the new environment without compromising their health and vigor.

After your little seedlings have been transplanted outside, water them at least every other day, especially if it’s hot outside, but allow for the ground to dry out in between. Watering plant babies well in the beginning helps to get them established. Once established, they do not require a ton of watering unless there are draught conditions that affect the plant.

We hope you learned some basic seed starting tips and tricks! Starting seeds ahead of the growing season is a great way to get a jump on starting flowers before the last frost date. This way, you can enjoy beautiful bouquets earlier in the season. If you’re looking for a great place to grab seeds to start your garden this year, check out our seeds that go online February 10th at Noon. Most of the varieties we grow here on the farm will be available in our seed shop. Grow a little piece of PepperHarrow in your garden!

XX Jenn and Adam