By Katie Martin – Smith County Extension Agent
If you are anything like me, these warmer days have you itching for spring and getting your hands in the dirt in the garden. To get a jumpstart on your flowers or vegetables this year, you might consider starting seeds indoors. While growing from seeds can be more demanding than growing from transplants, it can be a cost-effective and rewarding endeavor.
Seed starting is a simple process. All that is needed are seeds, containers, a growing medium, light, water, and a bit of patience. Starting with high-quality seeds is important to get good germination. You will want to read the directions on the back of the seed packet closely to ensure you plant the seed at the proper time, depth, and spacing. As far as growing medium, select a mix specifically made for seed starting. Germination mixes are designed to start your seedlings off disease-free and are well-draining while retaining enough moisture for good germination and growth. You can use pots, flats, seed trays, or even recycled containers to start your seeds in. Just ensure they have holes for adequate drainage. If your seed prefers to germinate at warmer temperatures, you can utilize a heat mat to aid germination. Avoid letting your soil dry out once seeds are planted by utilizing a humidity dome, or plastic wrap, or by misting the soil with water frequently. After germination, seedlings will need to receive bright light. A large, bright south-facing window may provide enough sunlight, but often additional light from shop lights or grow lights are needed.
With a little time, care, and attention, indoor seed starting can yield robust, healthy seedlings ready for transplanting outdoors when the time is right. Before planting seedlings outside, make sure to properly harden them off so they do not experience transplant shock. By germinating seeds indoors, gardeners can give their plants a head start, leading to earlier harvests. Sowing seed also allows gardeners to grow varieties that may not be available at local greenhouses or garden centers. Plus, you will feel the satisfaction of taking your plant all the way from seed to harvest. Happy gardening!
For more information about gardening, visit the UT Hort website at uthort.tennessee.edu/ or contact the UT Extension office at 615-735-2900.
