Starting Flowers from Seed Indoors: Timing, Technique, and Labeling

Winter seed-starting gives flowers a head start, saving money and extending bloom seasons. Simple techniques yield professional results.

Select Indoor-Suitable Varieties

Packet labels indicate which species tolerate early indoor starts (typically 6-8 weeks before frost). Annuals generally outperform perennials for beginners.

Plant at Correct Depth

Cover seeds just enough to hide them—larger seeds deeper, tiny seeds barely covered. Light-dependent germinators stay uncovered. Maintain humidity with plastic covers until sprouts emerge.

Label Everything Immediately

Young seedlings look remarkably similar. Clear labels prevent bed-placement errors later.