Tips and Tricks for Starting Perennial and Vegetable Seeds

If you are considering starting some seeds this year, stop. You definitely should. It is as inexpensive and easy as you want it to be. Sure, supplies are needed to get you started, and some seeds need a little extra attention to get going, but once that is done, the seeds tend to do the rest. Give them warmth, light, and water, and they will grow.

A seed packet contains dozens to hundreds of potential plants and costs a fraction of what just one would cost at the nursery. And many more varieties are available from seed than what you will find for sale locally. That’s right: more plants, less cost, greater variety. Now why wouldn’t you start some seeds?

As easy as seed starting is, you still need some information. How many seeds should you start? And what kinds? What gear do you need—or not need? Some seeds need different treatments, so what are they and how do you do them? We have all this information, and more,  for you right here. Here is a bit of what you will find:

• No matter the scope of the project you are beginning, it’s always good to have a plan. Know what you’re after when you start your own seeds, and why you’re doing so. The reasoning will help with your resolve when the going gets tough.
• Do some research on different plants you are interested in so that you can understand their seeds’ needs. Start with “The Science of Seed Starting” (below).
• For those seeds that require it, make sure to carry out pretreatment to give your seeds the best chance at germinating. Don’t know what “stratification” is? We’ve got you covered.
• Gather the tools of the trade. Seed-starting stands are a good investment, but if you’re just starting out, you can get the same effect with DIY seed-starting setups.
• Remember to plant a good mix of vegetables and ornamentals to ensure that pollinators are on hand to help you get a bountiful harvest.

Keep an eye on your seedlings and treat them well, and sooner or later you’ll have your very own robust garden teeming with life and produce.

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  Design

  How to Plan a Vegetable Garden

  Grow more fruits, vegetables, and herbs by devoting a few hours each day to planning

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  How-To

  15 Tips to Make Seed Starting Easier

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  How-To

  Seed-Starting Pre-Treat

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  Design

  10 Perennials Easily Grown From Seed

  Because this bunch is simple to start, you'll save money and get more plants

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  How-To

  Native Perennials to Start from Seed

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  How-To

  The Science of Seed Starting

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  How-To

  Starting Wildflowers From Seed

  Knowing when to keep them wet, dry, warm, or cold helps you to coax these woodland seeds to grow

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  Design

  Jump-Start Your Seeds

  Use these tricks to speed germination, then plant up some pots

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  How-To

  Nurture Seedlings on a Tiered Growing Stand

  This inexpensive, homemade stand holds 20 flats under fluorescent lights