Starting Seeds Indoors
Seed Starting
Starting seeds indoors gives home gardeners more control over temperature, moisture, and timing. It is useful for crops and flowers that need a long growing season or benefit from an early start before outdoor conditions are suitable.
How to do it
Use clean containers with drainage holes and fill them with a moistened seed starting mix. Sow seeds at the depth listed on the packet, label each container, and keep the mix evenly moist but not soggy. Place the containers in a warm spot for germination, then move seedlings under bright light as soon as they emerge. Thin crowded seedlings and provide gentle air movement so stems develop well.
Timing
Start seeds indoors based on your average last spring frost date and the crop's recommended lead time. Many vegetables and annual flowers are started several weeks before that date, while fast-growing crops may need less time. Check local frost dates and count backward so plants are ready but not overgrown at transplant time.
Tips
Use labels from the start because seedlings can look alike. Bottom watering can help reduce disturbance and keep foliage drier. If seedlings become tall and weak, they usually need stronger light or cooler conditions.
General guidance for US gardens. Timing depends on your local frost dates and hardiness zone. Page updated Aug 4, 2026.