Garden seed starting

If you are new to gardening (and even if you're an old hand), getting your flower garden off to a good start is one of the most important aspects of creating a successful garden. Unless you plan to purchase seedlings, seeds that have already begun the germination process, you'll be starting at the very beginning.

The indoor method

Seeds that are planted directly in soil outdoors often have a slim chance of survival. Many gardeners prefer to sow their flower seeds indoors, where they can be watched over and nurtured. There are a number of other reasons why starting seeds indoors is a wise choice:

• Growing season. In many areas, the growing season is shorter than the time needed for a plant to produce flowers. If sown indoors, gardeners are able to get a jump start and plant flowers that are not native to the area. If you live in an area where late winter seems to never end, starting seeds indoors will ensure they aren't killed off in an early spring frost.

• Bloom time. When given a head start, many types of flowers begin to bloom earlier than if they were planted outdoors. Marigolds, for example, are a true testament to this.

• Healthier seedlings. Creating a controlled and nurturing environment for seeds helps them to become healthy and stronger plants. You can guard against leggy seedlings if you're keeping a close watch indoors.

• Controlling Damping Off disease. White mold is apt to form on the top of soil in cold, damp, dark weather, which will wilt seedlings and eventually kill them. Kept indoors, this disease can be eliminated by keeping seedlings in direct sunlight, allowing soil to dry, increasing air circulation, and removing existing mold.

Sowing your (indoor) seeds

There are many indoor resources to help your little ones get going.

• Seed-starting kits. These magnificent creations have made the world of gardening that much easier. Seed-starting kits usually consist of some sort of bio dome or miniature greenhouse, which includes a bottom tray and vented, clear plastic top, and seedling food. Trays are divided into individual cells, where seeds are planted. Some even include individual sponges or disks, which expand in water, with holes intended for one seed.

• Grow lights. Although many flower seeds germinate in the dark, once seedlings emerge, they'll need plenty of light. Grow lights can ensure your seedlings continued health, particularly if you don't have a south facing window to place them in. They are also essential on dark, cloudy days, and can be used at night.

• Plant food. There are usually enough nutrients in soil to keep seeds happy, but a few days after they become seedlings, consider adding a bit of fertilizer. While you don't want to overfeed the plant, giving it a little boost can ensure healthy growth.

Making the move

Once your seedlings' roots have started to come out of the bottom of the pot or container, it's time to plant them outdoors. They are also ready to be transplanted if allowed 6 to 8 weeks indoors, the typical time frame recommended for indoor sowing. Of course, weather conditions must be right as well. Most flower seedlings shouldn't be taken outdoors until after the last frost. Any earlier, and you run the risk of cold weather killing off your hard work!

Here are some tips for making the big move:

• Let flower seedlings acclimate gently to the outdoors. Put them outside on cloudy days or in the shade. After a few days, give them more light and exposure.

• Plant new growth while skies are overcast or in the late afternoon. Water immediately after transplanting.

• Provide protection for flower seedlings, such as an empty milk carton, especially in windy areas or if seedlings wilt.