Seed starting FAQs

Germination Station, or, things I couldn’t ask at the nursery for my wanton pride

Here are some questions and answers that may clear things up a bit:

Do I need to provide light to my seeds?

Not usually. A seed simply needs plenty of moisture and the proper depth (some need to rest on top of the mixture, others slightly under). Take care to give them enough light as soon as they sprout. A south-facing window that gets plenty of sun will do nicely. Otherwise, you’ll need florescent lights for 12 to 14 hours to get healthy stems and leaves. A plant that didn’t get enough light early on is likely to be too tall and weak, often impossible to correct. If you don’t want to buy lights, try magnifying the natural sunlight with some aluminum foil and cardboard.

How do I know the right moisture level for my seeds?

Your mixture should be wet to the touch but not soggy. Too much water will cause the seeds to rot; not enough and nothing will happen. Most seed starting kits come with some kind of plastic cover that will keep the moisture consistent for the duration of germination. Once sprouting occurs, the covering should be removed to lower the moisture level. Also concerning water, sodium from water softeners can kill seedlings, and chlorinated water should set out overnight before you apply it so the chlorine dissipates.

Do I fertilize my seeds?

Fertilization is very important, since you are growing them in a soilless environment. However, don’t apply any fertilizer until you see a second set of full leaves sprouting. Start with a half dose of your fertilizer for about a month and then move to weekly or biweekly full-strength doses.

What is the right temperature for germination?

This varies, but generally seeds like a soil temperature of around 78 degrees F. Check your seed packets or any handy reference material for the ideal temperature range (preferably before you plant to avoid making neighbors of incompatible plants). If you need a little more heat, find a warm surface, like the top of a refrigerator, on which you can put them. Some seed starting kits have warming mats that get this done, but there are ways around it for the resourceful gardener.

My seedlings are getting big but it’s too cold to put them outside

You planted a little too early. No worries, though, you’ll just have to pot up. Try to foresee this problem and move your seedlings before their roots tangle. Ripping and tearing roots will happen, but it is best kept to a minimum. Gently lift a seedling out using a spoon or your finger. Avoid handling the stem, which can be easily bent at this stage. Instead, hold it by the leaves or roots. Most seedlings like to be replanted at about the same depth or a little deeper. Now simply return them to their light source.