6 Ways to Start Seeds for the Garden

Spring is only days away, and it’s just about time to get the garden growing. Use one of these methods to get your seeds started.

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There are several ways you can start seeds for your garden.

6 Ways to Start Seeds

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 about starting seeds with this method here.

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.

You can use a 1020 tray to house the blocks and for easier watering.

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:

1. Fill the containers with moistened soil, plant your seeds, and close the lid. Place them in a warm, sunny place.
2. Open the lids once you see seedlings popping up through the soil.
3. Separate seedlings into nursery pots before they become too crowded so the roots have space to grow.

Paper Towel Germination

Wrap seeds in a paper towel to get a kick start on germination.

Starting seeds this way can reduce the time it takes to germinate.

Learn how to start seeds in paper towels here.

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 about winter sowing here.

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 about direct sowing here.

Have fun and experiment with all the different ways until you find which ones you prefer.

Is there a method you like starting your seeds that I didn’t mention? Let us know in the comments.

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Until next time –