There are a few reasons that I like to start my plants from seeds. One reason is that it feels more satisfying to me when I have started my massive garden from mere seeds. To take something so small and turn it into something so big is an amazing feeling of accomplishment. Another reason is that starting from seed is a whole lot cheaper than buying plants from a nursery. The last reason is that it is a hobby that is quite difficult for me and I suppose I enjoy the challenge of it. I want to learn from my mistakes and get better at starting plants from seeds. Starting from seed can be a crapshoot from year to year, just like the garden itself.
I'll share some of the things that I have discovered and learned the hard way because Betty loves you baby.
I use a mini indoor greenhouse that has two shelves. I got it new last year to replace a four shelf indoor greenhouse that I had been using for years that was a hand-me-down from my in-laws. I would still be using it if it hadn't been falling apart.
I usually start my seeds in egg cartons. They are the perfect size and make getting started a snap. I usually move the plants into peat pots once they outgrow the egg carton. Peat pots are great since they create no waste and can go right into the ground.
I also use a Vivosun seedling heat mat. I bought it from Amazon to help with green pepper germination. In my experience, green peppers are tricky to get started, and mama ain't got time fo dat. The heat mat is helpful in helping all your seeds to germinate.
I bought an LED grow light last year from Amazon to try out. I was having trouble with my seedlings not doing well because they weren't getting adequate natural light. I bought a dual head model with a timing option and adjustable gooseneck by Ankace. Grow lights are really helpful for seedlings. Make sure to keep the lights as close to the plant as possible to keep them from growing prematurely tall, resulting in thin, unstable stems.
Last year I also tried a self-watering seed starting tray by Burpee. I have mixed feelings about it. I wouldn't buy it now just because of the materials involved. The plus is that I didn't have to worry about under watering or over watering, which was nice because I struggle with that. The lid didn't fit right but it still worked in that it was its own little greenhouse. It isn't compatible with the heat mat, so that was a bummer. I also thought it was difficult to get the seedlings out of the cells without destroying them (the cells) in the process. I wouldn't buy it again and I don't recommend it.
Not all seeds are meant to be started indoors. Read your seed packet carefully for those instructions. I start a few indoors that are really meant to be a direct sow, such as zucchini. I usually start at least a few extras of each plant since they don't always sprout or survive the transplant to the outdoors. Do what works for you but don't bother starting seeds too early, it doesn't work. I've tried this in hopes of having larger plants that produce fruit sooner. It just doesn't work.
Here is a guide for when to start your seeds in Minnesota:
Early to mid-March: broccoli, Brussel sprouts, cabbage, and cauliflower.
Mid to late March: chives, eggplant, parsley, peppers, and sage.
Early to mid-April: basil, beets, cabbage (late,) cilantro, fennel, kale, onions, and tomatoes.
Mid to late April: beans, cucumber, lettuce, melons, and pumpkins.
Early to mid-May: squash, watermelon, and zucchini.
Mid to late May: You can directly sow corn, beans, radishes, lettuce, squash, and melons.
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