Tips for starting plants indoors

Starting plants indoors gives you a great opportunity to kick off your gardening season early and set your plants up for success. First, choose seeds that are well-suited for indoor growth, like tomatoes, peppers, and herbs, and check the seed packets for guidance on timing. Use containers that have proper drainage, such as seed trays, pots, or repurposed items like yogurt cups.
Next, opt for a seed-starting mix that is light and well-draining, avoiding garden soil which can be too heavy and may harbor pests. Make sure your plants receive adequate light—placing them in a sunny, south-facing window or using grow lights to provide 12-16 hours of illumination each day works best. Keep the environment warm, ideally between 65-75°F, as seeds require specific temperatures to germinate successfully. Cover the containers with plastic wrap or a clear lid to maintain humidity until the seeds sprout.
Watering is essential but should be done carefully to avoid over-saturation. Use a spray bottle or a gentle watering technique to keep the soil consistently moist. Once the seedlings develop their first true leaves, thin them out by snipping the weaker ones to allow the strongest ones to thrive. When seedlings grow their second set of true leaves, introduce a diluted liquid fertilizer to support their growth.
Before transplanting your plants outdoors, gradually expose them to outdoor conditions by setting them outside for a few hours a day over the course of a week. This process, known as hardening off, helps them acclimate to the change in environment. By following these steps, your indoor gardening efforts will be off to a strong start, preparing your plants for a healthy and productive growing season.