When I first started seedlings indoors, I used a very simple approach and no special tools. With this simple approach, I had some success but not good success. The basics were in place: seeds, containers and a good planting medium (e.g. soil). Seed trays were placed on the floor in my kitchen, in front of a sliding glass door, and watered as needed. As the orientation in my kitchen is north/west the area received afternoon sunlight. I watched as the young seedlings struggled to grow and bent toward the light. Starting seedlings with this approach was not great.
As I started attending workshops and reading about seed planting, I realized that by adding a few simple tools, I could have a higher probability of success and healthier transplants. Below, I share four tools that I now use. These tools have transformed my seed starting process and I have higher germination rates and much healthier plants. The following tools will ensure that your seedlings have what they need to grow: correct temperature, right amount of light, good air flow and the right moisture.
If you would like more information on starting plants from seeds, you can reference my blog post titled “The complete guide to starting seeds indoors“.
To create a garden without love is to build a house of bricks without mortar.
Roberto Burle Marx
SEEDLING HEAT MAT
A seedling heat mat is an electric heat pad that sits under the seed tray. Many seeds need warm soil temperature to germinate, and this can be aided by placing the seed tray on a specially designed seedling heat mat. Seedling heat mats come in different sizes that fit one, two or four standard-sized flats. Some heat mats come with a thermostat to monitor the temperature. Seedling heat mats work by raising the temperature of the soil in the planting containers. Most seeds respond well to this method of germination but its important to read your seed packet. Some plants need it cool to germinate and these may not respond to a seed heating mat. Here is the process for using a seedling heat mat:
- Check your seed packet to determine the heat requirements for the seeds to germinate.
- Place your heat mat on a dry level surface and plug into an electrical outlet.
- Place the seed tray on top of the heat mat.
- Check your seeds each day and water as needed; the soil will dry out quicker on a heat mat.
- Once germination has occurred, remove the seed tray from the heat mat.
You can purchase seedling heat mats from most big box home stores or online. Consider the size you need and whether you want a thermostat. Prices start at about $12 for a single heat mat (without thermostat) and go up from there depending upon size and features.
GROW LIGHTS
Most homes do not have windows that will provide adequate light for seedlings to develop properly. Starting seedlings needs the right amount of light, or they will become leggy and weak and may not develop their true leaves. To provide the correct amount of light, you can use standard florescent lights or LED grow lights. Florescent lights are readily available and economical. LED Grow lights have the added benefit of a wider color spectrum that is good for growing flowers and fruit. Both styles work for growing transplants. Here is the process for using lights:
- The lights need to shine for at least 16 hours a day. It is good to purchase a timer that can control the time when the lights are on. Artificial lights are not as intense as sunlight and so this longer period is needed.
- The light needs to be no further away from the seedlings than four to six inches. If the light is further away, the seedlings will have to stretch to reach the light and this could result in ‘leggy’ seedlings. It is also important to be able to raise the level of the lights as the seedlings grow to maintain the four to six-inch distance.
To better under your options when choosing florescent lights, reference this article from the University of Maryland Extension.
OSCILLATING FAN
Good air circulation is useful for promoting two positive effects: preventing disease and developing stronger, sturdier seedlings. An indoor oscillating fan can provide the needed air circulation for starting seedlings. The fan also better prepares the seedlings for acclimating to the outdoors. Here is how you use a fan:
- Look for a fan that can either be used with a base and/or can be clipped onto the seed rack. I use a clip-on style, and this has worked well.
- Do not point the fan directly at the seedlings; aim to point the air circulation between the light and the seedling tray.
- Run the fan on the same cycle as your lights (16 hours on, 8 hours off).
Oscillating fans are relatively inexpensive and can be purchased from most big box home stores and online.
SEEDLING SPRINKLER
It is important to keep your seedlings moist during their growth cycle. There are many ways to water seedlings including watering from the top and watering from the bottom. My preferred method is to water from the top. A fellow gardener, who I admire, demonstrated these simple, inexpensive ‘seedling sprinklers’ that attach to standard plastic bottles. These attachments allow you to efficiently and gently water your seedlings. I purchased a package of 5 on Amazon for under $10 and I highly recommend.
I wish you success and all the joy that comes from starting seedlings!
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