Even if you don’t own a greenhouse, starting your plants from seeds can be a fun and easy way to save money on the plants you normally purchase. With some minimal equipment and a bit of practice, anyone can inexpensively grow their favorite vegetables and flowers.

Choosing Seeds

Almost any retail garden center has a wide array of seeds to choose from, which is perfect for those who are looking for familiar favorites. However, if you’re looking for something more unique, seed catalogs (easily found online) are the best option. There are literally thousands of plant varieties available, many of which you cannot find in nurseries. These unique plants can add character to your yard or garden, but are still relatively easy to grow.

Getting the Right Tools

When starting seeds, be sure to put them in containers of the appropriate size. Seed starting inserts are ideal because they provide the perfect amount of room to grow and make thinning easy. In order to give your seeds the best start possible and to accelerate their growth, a seedling heat mat is highly recommended. The gentle heat will stimulate the roots, allowing the plants to grow much stronger before they are transplanted. Adding a humidity dome can also aid in growth by providing the perfect moist environment.

Often times there is not enough natural light available for seedlings to develop well, especially if they are being started in winter or early spring. Adding a grow light is a great way to encourage vigorous, healthy growth. For best results with seedlings, try a fluorescent light system or a metal halide grow light.  More information about choosing a grow light is available here.

Transplanting the Seeds

Once the roots of the seedling have grown enough to reach the walls of the seed starting insert, they need to be transplanted. It is best to then transplant the seeds into 4" pots, where they can continue to be protected in the greenhouse or indoors. During this time it is important to lightly fertilize regularly, but be sure to limit the nitrogen you provide because it can cause “leggy” growth, instead of healthier, bushier growth.

When the seedlings have begun to outgrow their home in the 4" pots, they can be transplanted into a new container for the greenhouse, or planted directly into your yard. If the seedlings are going to be put into another container, be sure that it is large enough to allow the plant to continue to grow throughout the season. Only transplant the seedlings into your yard once the danger of frost has passed and temperatures are warm enough for any fragile plants.

See the greenhouse seedling products up close in this short video.