Seed Starting - Series 2 Article 2 - Starting Vegetable Seeds Indoors

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By Bonnie McNamee

Starting vegetable seeds indoors has many benefits and possibilities. It can be fun, educational, and rewarding for children and adults alike. Not only is it cheaper, but you can buy seeds in many more varieties that include different flavors, shapes and colors. Planting seeds indoors give some plants a head start that brings earlier harvests and greater yield.

Now is a good time to obtain seed catalogs from different companies and compare their seed crops and prices. Make a list of what you would like to grow.   

Consider how much space you have indoors to accommodate your seed trays and how you will care for them as they grow indoors. After planting your seeds make sure to label everything. It’s all too easy to forget what is planted where.  Keep your outdoor space in mind, too. You’ll want enough seedlings to fill your garden plot so take a few minutes to plan your garden and determine where you’ll plant each crop of transplants. A simple sketch will do.

Good choices for seed starting indoors are tomatoes, zucchini, squash, peppers, eggplant, lettuce, chard, and some marigolds to discourage pests and add some color.

According to the Burpee Seed Company seed starting is as follows: (1) Purchase seed starting mix. (2) Make sure your containers are clean and have drainage holes. (3) Plant seeds at proper depth. (4) Keep seed starting mix moist.  (Some people like to use plastic domes or wrap and then remove as soon as seeds have germinated to allow good air circulation.) (5) After sowing, set the containers in a warm location. (6) As soon as seedlings emerge, place pots in a bright location. (7) Cool room temperature is best. (8) Begin fertilizing weekly. (9) Don’t plant your seedlings outdoors until there is no danger of frost.

Please note that not all plants should be started indoors, some are best sown directly in the soil.  Some direct seeded plants are peas, beans, radishes, carrots and corn.  Different plants have different needs, so always be sure to read the seed packet information on how to sow your seeds. 

Before planting outdoors you should have your soil tested. A soil testing kit is $20 and can be picked up at the Extension office located at 2 Academy Drive, Westampton.

Make sure you have some sort of protection under your containers such as aluminum baking sheets, sized to fit your containers, to handle any excess water. To clean containers use one part bleach to four parts water, scrub and rinse well. Another option is to use peat pots which are biodegradable pots.  These can be planted right in the garden and young roots will not be disturbed.

With a little planning and a few supplies and tools, you’ll be on your way to a successful garden. 

Please watch for Articles III and IV on seed starting for annuals and perennials, and herbs.




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