Starting Seeds

1. It is important to use a soilless mix (for large seeds use PRO MIX BX and for small seeds use PRO MIX PGX) to start seeds. Never use soil from the garden.  Also it would be a good idea to use an inexpensive fluorescent shop light with one warm white and one cool white bulb; it is not necessary to buy grow lights.  Bottom heat also speeds germination but is not necessary.  (If seeds need to be covered with a soil use a fine grade of vermiculite).
I also cover my seeds with a humidity dome or a piece of plastic or a plastic bag till the seeds germinate If you have the seed in a sunny window the cover must be taken off, or the sun will cook the seeds. I know - I did that!

2. Expensive vs. inexpensive seeds- I buy from a reputable seed company just because I think the germination rate is probably better. Park Seed Company, Burpee and Ferry-Morse are all good. Wal-Mart carries Burpee and Lowe’s carries Burpee and Ferry –Morse.     

3. Tomato plants may get spindly and fall over if the seeds are started too early. 

4. Seeds may be started in trays, pots, or a plug tray, depending on the type of plants grown.  Tomatoes and marigolds grow very fast and may only be in the seed starting flat for 3 to 4 weeks; other seedlings will be longer. After the seedling has at least two sets of true leaves, it is removed from the seedling flat and transplanted to either a small pot or a cell pack to grow until it is ready to be moved out of doors and hardened off for transplanting into its permanent location.
   
5. Successful seed starting requires moisture for the seeds to germinate.  If the seed flat dries out, germination suffers. Some seeds need to be covered lightly, while others need light for germination and so are not covered.  If the seed is very small as some flower seeds are, it is helpful to buy pellet seed.  This is a seed with a special coating  that makes it easier to sow
     
6. Seeds to start outside are zinnias, sunflowers, and morning glories.  Don’t sow until all danger of frost is past.
  
7. Most common mistakes are starting seeds inside too early, not enough light, and over watering.    

8. I start everything inside, but I do have a greenhouse.  Some things are grown from seed and some things are grown from cuttings.

                     Sharon Miller, Master Gardener