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Seed starting can be so intimidating. Knowing where to start is scary enough, but then some seeds don’t germinate and frustration takes over. Then we get overwhelmed with all the things that need to be done to care for them I understand. There are times it still feels like a lot to me.
Starting seeds is something I look forward to every year! There’s something magical about watching the new life happen.
Ready for some magic? It’s easier than you think. Grab your magic wand and get ready!
- Start Small. I know that we want to plant. ALL. THE. PLANTS. Trust me starting small with a couple of varieties will pay off. Get comfortable with those then add more ’til your planting everything.
- Soil Quality is huge. Be sure to use a good quality seed starting soil or make your own. Those seeds need some nutrients to get off to a great start.
- Lighting is key. Get lights on them as soon as they sprout. Keep the light close, I’m talking like almost touching. This helps to avoid weak and leggy plants.
- Start with wet soil. Not like ring water out of it wet. The seeds seem to germinate better.
- Harden them off slowly. Start with short bursts of time outside. Give the plants a windbreak. It never fails I forget the windbreak and 40 mph gusts start within 5 mins of me coming back inside.
Need some troubleshooting help? Try these posts! Be sure to tell them Homesteadyish sent you!
5 Fatal Mistakes for Germinating Seeds By Laura @ You Should Grow
Most Common Seed Starting Problems- and How to Fix Them By Sarah @The Free Range Life
How To Harden Off Seeds By Rachel @ Grow A Good Life
10 Steps to Starting Seedlings Indoors By Rache @ Grow A Good Life
It is so hard to start small when it comes to plants! I have a few plants I’m starting from seed but the rest are mature plants growing in their containers. I start my seeds outdoors since we have mild weather here year long, but its still hit or miss in getting them to grow. Its also tricky growing on my balcony this time of year, since its half hidden in shade. I can’t wait for the days to get longer again!
Oh I know! I want them all! Lol. I wish we could but here in bipolar Missouri it can be sunny and 70 then snow that evening. Some plants I habe a harder time with getting to take off well. Like my peppers those things seem to be so picky!