When it comes to growing plants and trees, you usually have two choices: either from seed or from a transplant. It’s no secret that seed starting is a longer and more delicate process.
But some would argue that growing from seed is an even more rewarding process because you are truly accompanying your plant through every stage of life. It’s the most ancient connection that humans have with nature.
So if you’re interested in seed starting, roll up your sleeves, and learn everything there is to know!
Preparation
So you’ve decided to take the longer road and start your plants from seed. Congratulations! It is the oldest connection that mankind has with the earth, and you’re bound to draw a lot of satisfaction from it. If this is your first time starting this adventure, take advantage of our guides for beginners. If not, then go ahead and skip to the next section!
Indoor Gardening for Beginners
Indoor Gardening Plants to Grow
Harvesting Seeds
Harvesting seeds is the most natural way to acquire seeds for planting. And if we’re being honest, it’s also how mother nature intended for plants and trees to propagate! It can be a delicate process, however, so take your time in reading these guides.
How to Harvest Zinnia Seeds
Deseeding Pomegranates
How to Harvest Tomato Seeds
How to Save Tomato Seeds
Purchasing Seeds
Purchasing seeds is the most reliable way to acquire them, because you know exactly what you’re getting (as opposed to collecting seeds from hybrid plants—they might not even be fertile!). Plus, they usually come with instructions, or you can ask the staff at your local nursery.
Where to Buy Seedlings
Where to Buy Daisies
Cucumber Seeds
Planting Seeds
Now comes the fun part! You have your seeds, so it’s time to start planting. Learn all about the basics of planting seedlings, and everything else you should be doing.
How to Build an Indoor Seed Starting Setup
How to Create a Seed Starting Calendar
How to Create Organic Seed Starting Mix
How to Plant Specific Varieties
Planting certain seeds might seem more daunting than others (what do you even do with an avocado seed?!), but they all have one thing in common: you need care, attention, and lots of patience. If you’ve got that down, take a look at the specific growing techniques for your variety of preference.
Vegetables
Beans
Broccoli
Brussels Sprouts
Cabbage
Cauliflower
Cucumbers
Eggplant
Kale
Kohlrabi
Lettuce
Onions
Peas
Peppers
Spinach
Squash
Summer Squash
Swiss Chard
Tomato
Winter Squash
Fruit
Apple
Apricot
Avocado
Cherry
Grapes
Melons
Peach
Watermelon
Flowers
Flowers
Cosmos
Hibiscus
Marigold
Nasturtium
Roses
Snapdragons
Zinnia
Seedling Care
Your seedlings are planted, hurray! But remember that there is still some work to do. First, start out with our general care guide for seedlings, then use the other posts to get into the specifics of everything you want to learn.
How Often to Water Seedlings
How to Care for Seedlings
How to Fertilize Seedlings
How to Harden Off Seedlings
How to Transplant Seedlings After Germination
Seed Starting Lights
Seedling Soil
When to Pot Up Seedlings
When to Thin Seedlings
When to Transplant Seedlings
Why Are My Seedlings Dying?
Recommended Products
If you’re a first-time seed starter, you may be overwhelmed at the thought of having to build your gardening tool arsenal from scratch. Or maybe you’re a veteran gardener whose go-to tools are starting to get a bit rusty. Either way, it’s tough to distinguish good products from scams in today’s oversaturated market.
So if you’d like some advice, take a look at my suggested brands for all the tools you’ll need to start your greenery from seed! First, take a broader view by reading the Kinds of Indoor Gardening Tools to Get You Started, and then take a deeper dive into specific categories. And if you’re really looking to treat yourself, choose a seed organizer to stay on top of things!
Seed Starting Kits
Racks and Shelves
Indoor Gardening Shelves
Seed Starting Racks
Planting
Seed Starting Mix for Indoor Gardeners
Seed Starting Mix for Vegetables
How to Use Seed Starting Plugs
Seed Starting Pots
Seed Starting Trays for Indoor Gardeners
Reusable Seed Starting Trays
Lighting
What Color Light is Best for Seedlings?
Grow Lights
Grow Lights for Indoor Gardening
Grow Lights for Indoor Plants
Where to Buy Grow Lights
Heat and Humidity
Heating Pads
Humidity Domes
pH testers
Cooking with Seeds
I thought I’d add this section to this comprehensive guide on seeds because the truth of the matter is that you can do more than just plant certain seeds. You can also eat them! Here are some great recipes and information posts about the consumption of seeds.
Roasted Pumpkin Seeds
Health Benefits of Pumpkin Seeds
Roasted Sunflower Seeds
Are Sunflower Seeds Good for You?
FAQS
Last but not least, you might still have some lingering questions about starting your garden project from seed.
How can I create an indoor garden?
If you need a little inspiration to get started, learn all about Indoor Gardening for Beginners and cool Indoor Vegetable Gardening Ideas.
Can Dogs Eat Pumpkin Seeds?
If you have four-legged friends in the house, chances are that you’ve wondered whether it’s dangerous for them to eat seeds. Our pet posts are rapidly expanding, and in the meantime, check out my post Can Dogs Eat Pumpkin Seeds?
Hint: in moderation, yes!
Take the Long Road!
I hope you are now inspired to take the long road: growing a plant or tree from seed, instead of buying the transplant. While both methods are tried and true, there’s just something beautiful and satisfying about accompanying a plant or true through every stage of their live.
Next, learn how to take care of some fruit trees after you’ve planted their seeds!
