How to Start Seeds

Having a garden is one of the best ways for a homestead to be self sufficient.  In the almost 13 years we've been married, we've had a garden almost every year. 

From planting, growing and canning our delicious yield each year, we have learned A LOT!

Some years we've tried to start plants indoors with little success.  Other years we've had success, but we have personally found the best method on how to start seeds and want to share that with you today.

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Sowing seeds can be a frustrating process.  When you start seeds indoors they need lots of light, a fan to keep the strong and constant attention to ensure they survive.

Instead, we like the winter sowing method.  With this method you can start you plants outdoors during winter and allow the to germinate and grow when your regional weather encourages them to do so.

When to start germinating seeds?

Typically seeds need 4-6 weeks before planting to germinate indoors or even in the winter sowing method.  That means for us, in zone 7a, we need to start our seeds in late March to early April.

Take time to learn what planting zone you live in and when it is best in your area to start sowing seeds.

What is the cheapest way to start seeds indoors?

We like cheap just like the next person.  We've found milk jugs, plastic soda bottles, yogurt cups and egg cartons to be the best ways to start seeds indoors or outdoors.  

Not only are they economical, but they are easy to get your hands on.  Whether you buy them yourself or ask a neighbor to collect some for you.

VIDEO:  How to Start Seeds Indoors

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How to Start Seeds

Materials Needed

• Garden Seeds 
• Planting containers
• Soil
• Spray bottle or small watering can
• Popsicle sticks
• Sharpie Marker
• Duct Tape
• Knife 

Before you begin, make sure to read the seed packet that comes with your seeds.  To ensure the best possible sowing.

Step 1

Prepare your container.  Make sure it is clean, dry and ready for soil.

Some great containers for both winter sowing and indoor planting are milk jugs and used soda bottles.

If you are only growing indoors, you might consider little yogurt containers.

Step 2

Prepare the soil.  We mix ours in a big bowl with a few cups of water.  You want the soil moist but not super wet.

Step 3

Add soil to your container.  You want a couple inches for the seeds to root into.

Step 4

Add seeds to soil.  For larger seeds you can make a small indentation in the soil to add the seeds and cover.

For tiny seeds like onions, you can just lay them on top and cover with a little soil.

Step 5

Water your seeds.  Use a spray bottle or small watering can to ensure the soil and seeds get moisture.  Don't over saturate the soil or your seeds won't germinate.

Add popsicle stick with name of seed into the side of your planter.

Step 6

For indoor sowing, place plants under a nice lamp with lots of light.  Set up a fan on low to help give the seeds a bit of resistance and help them build their tolerance.

For outdoor sowing, tape the top of the milk jug to the bottom.  Leave the cap off and set the jug in a secure spot out in the sun.

That's it!!  Now just make sure you water your plants regularly.  Usually a few spritz from the spray bottle is all they will need.  Keep the soil moist but not soaking or the roots can rot.

Once the soil temperature outside is warm enough, you can open your containers to bring your plants outside to transplant them into the soil.