5 tips for seed starting

The Best Feeds Garden Center Guide to Seed Starting

Seed starting is a great way to get a head start on your garden.  It's also a fun activity that the whole family can enjoy and kids can learn more about how things grow.  Here are some tips to get you started:

1. Choose the right containers: Use seed trays or small pots with drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating and causing root rot.  Biodegradable options like peat pots can be planted directly into the soil when seedlings are ready to be transplanted.

2. Use quality soil: Seed starting mix is specially formulated with the right nutrients and is free from disease that can harm seedlings.

3. Seeds need light: place trays in south facing windows or use grow lights.  Seedlings need 14-16 hours of light to grow.

4. Watch the water! Only water when soil is dry to the touch.  Overwatering can cause root rot.

5. Keep seedlings warm.  If you don't have an area of your house that can maintain 65 to 75 degrees, consider using a heat mat until they sprout.  Then they can be moved to cooler area.