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NLI > Starting Seeds in the Spring

Starting Seeds in the Spring

When should I start seeds indoors so they are ready to transplant outdoors in the spring?

The best time to start seeds is based on the last spring frost date for your area minus the length of time required for seeds to germinate and be ready for planting. For most seeds, germination time is listed on the seed packet.  Here is an estimate of lead time for popular seeds:

  • Onions: 8 to 12 weeks before the set out date, which is 4 to 6 weeks before last frost (in total, 12 to 18 weeks before last frost).
  • Lettuce: 5 to 6 weeks before the safe planting-out date, which is 4 to 5 weeks before the last frost (in total, 9 to 11 weeks before last frost).
  • Beets, Cabbage, broccoli, collards: 4 to 6 weeks, which is 2 weeks before last frost date (in total 6 to 8 weeks before last frost).
  • Peppers: start 8 to 12 weeks before the last frost, and plant 2 weeks before last frost date.
  • Eggplant and Tomatoes: start,  6 to 8 weeks before the last frost, and two weeks before last frost date
  • Cucumbers and melons: start 8 to 10 weeks, and set out 2 to 4 weeks after the last frost.
sprouts coming out of the ground
one sprout
seedlings
child holding a seedling in a pot

Successful sprouting

  • Fill your container with 3-4 inches of starting mix. Moisten thoroughly with warm water.
  • Place three seeds end to end, the length of this line is how deep you should plant the seed. For example, plant peas about 1 in. deep; spinach seeds, 1⁄4 in. deep.
  • Tiny seeds like lettuce and parsley should be broadcast (sprinkled) across the top of the soil or planting medium and then covered ever so lightly with your planting mix. When broadcasting, be sure not to sow too many seeds.
  • Once you have planted seeds, you must keep the planting medium moist and warm. Check seed packet for further information.
  • Check the soil daily to ensure it is not dry.

 

A seedling emerges

  • Light is necessary once the seedlings emerge. Seedlings need 12 to 16 hours of light from the sun, grow lights or fluorescent lights.
  • As seedlings emerge, you may need to thin them to ensure they have enough space to grow.