The Ultimate Guide to Seed Starting at Home
2 minutes ago
3 min read
0
1
0
Starting seeds at home is one of the most rewarding parts of gardening. Not only does it save money, but it also gives you access to a wider variety of flowers, vegetables, and herbs than you’ll ever find at big-box stores. Whether you’re growing a full garden or just a few herbs for your kitchen, this guide will help you start seeds like a pro.
1. Choosing the Right Soil Mix
Good soil is the foundation of strong seedlings. Garden soil is too heavy for starting seeds — you need a light, fluffy mix that drains well.
Look for a seed-starting mix that includes:
Peat moss or coco coir for moisture
Perlite or vermiculite for airflow
No bark, chunks, or compost (these can carry disease)
Pro tip: Pre-moisten your soil before filling trays. It should feel like a damp sponge.
2. Getting the Lighting Right
Seedlings need 12–16 hours of light every day. Without strong, consistent lighting, they’ll grow tall, thin, and weak.
Great LED grow light options
Lighting tips:
Keep lights 2–4 inches above seedlings
Raise the light as plants grow
Use a timer to maintain consistent lighting
🌱 3. Seed Trays, Pots, & Containers
The right containers help keep seedlings healthy and easy to transplant.
Recommended seed trays & containers
Other good options:
Reusable plastic nursery pots
Recycled containers (just add drainage holes!)
Humidity domes to maintain warmth and moisture during germination
4. Temperature & Germination Tips
Most seeds germinate best between 65–75°F.A heat mat can speed up sprouting for warm-loving plants like tomatoes, peppers, and basil.
Recommended heat mats (add Amazon links):
Watering basics:
Water from the bottom to prevent mold
Keep soil moist but never soggy
Remove humidity domes once seedlings sprout
5. When & How to Transplant Seedlings
Transplant when seedlings have:
2–3 sets of true leaves
Roots filling their container
Outdoor temps suitable for the plant variety
Transplanting steps:
Harden off plants outdoors 7–10 days beforehand.
Transplant on a cloudy day or evening.
Plant at the same depth (unless it's a tomato — bury deeper!).
Water thoroughly.
6. Common Seed-Starting Mistakes to Avoid
Too little light
Overwatering
Using garden soil
Planting seeds too deep
Skipping the hardening-off process
Avoid these, and your seedlings will thrive.
7.What You Can Start Growing Right Now in Zone 8b
Here is a seasonal list of seeds that can be started right now in USDA Zone 8b (indoors or outdoors depending on the crop and time of year):
Cool-Season Vegetables (start now indoors or outdoors depending on temperature):
Lettuce (all varieties)
Spinach
Kale
Swiss chard
Collard greens
Mustard greens
Arugula
Broccoli
Cauliflower
Cabbage
Brussels sprouts
Carrots
Beets
Turnips
Peas (sugar snap & snow)
Herbs You Can Start Now (indoors or outdoors depending on frost):
Parsley
Cilantro
Chives
Dill
Sage
Thyme
Oregano
Mint
Flowers for Early Starting (indoors):
Marigolds
Zinnias
Calendula
Snapdragons
Sweet peas
Pansies
Violas
Warm-Season Crops You Can Start Indoors Now (for later transplant):
Tomatoes
Peppers
Eggplant
Basil
(These are especially good for seed-starting under lights.)
Start Your Seeds with Confidence!
At Manning’s Feed & Seed, we carry a wide selection of supplies to help you begin your seed-starting journey, including:
Seed-starting soil and potting mixes
Quality fertilizers
Vegetable, flower, and herb seeds
Knowledgeable, local guidance from our team
While some specialty tools and equipment (such as heat mats, trays, and grow lights) may need to be ordered online, we’re always here to help you choose the right seeds and supplies to get your garden off to a strong start.
