Starting your own seeds is a rewarding and budget-friendly way to grow a garden. In this post we’ll explore six different ways to start seeds, so you can choose the best option for your space, budget, and gardening goals.
Let’s get those seeds sprouting!
6 Different Ways to Start Seeds
1. Seed starting trays
The most common way to start seeds is in seed starting trays.
You can use kits like these that come complete with growing pellets and a greenhouse dome.
The growing pellets are made of coco choir, a light, fluffy material that is ideal for seed starting.
The dome lid helps keep the humidity in and the soil moist to aid in germination.
Learn more: How to Start Seeds Indoors: A Beginner’s Guide to Successful Growth
2. Soil blocks
This method uses a special tool called a soil blocker to create compact blocks of soil suitable for starting and growing seeds in.
The soil blocks then get placed on a 1020 tray for easier watering and to keep the blocks together.
3. DIY greenhouses
Use plastic egg cartons or produce containers that act as a mini greenhouse to create the perfect growing environment to start seeds.
Directions:
- Fill the containers with moistened soil, plant your seeds, and close the lid. Place them in a warm, sunny place.
- Open the lids once you see seedlings popping up through the soil.
- Separate seedlings into nursery pots before they become too crowded so the roots have space to grow.
4. Paper Towel Germination
With this method, seeds get wrapped in a damp paper towel to help kick start germination.
Starting seeds this way can reduce the time it takes to germinate.
Learn more: Speed Up Seed Germination: One Simple Method for Faster Growth
5. Winter sowing
You can get a head start on the growing season by using winter sowing.
This method uses mini greenhouses (typically clean milk jugs) to start seeds during the cold winter months.
This method only works with certain cold weather crops and won’t work for plants that prefer warm or tropical temperatures.
Learn more: How to Winter Sow Seeds in Milk Jugs
6. Direct sowing
Cucumbers, squash, beans, peas melons, and gourds are among some of the seeds that prefer being directly sown into the soil.
Direct sowing of these seeds results in a much stronger, more prolific plant.
You can, of course, start these seeds indoors as well, but keep in mind that they are prone to transplant shock and may need some extra love and care for survival.
Learn more: Direct Sowing Seeds: What Seeds to Sow and When
Gardening is a fun and creative learning process
Have fun and experiment with all the different ways until you find which ones you prefer.
Which method do you prefer to start your seeds? Is there a method you like that I didn’t mention? Let me know in the comments below! I love seeing how you make your garden grow.
Share your garden with me!
I love seeing what everyone is growing! Tag @thehomesteadmother on Instagram so I can see and share your posts.
Happy planting & until next time –
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