Starting Plants from Seed: A Complete Beginner’s Guide

Seeds cost less, offer more variety, and let you control plant health from day one. Here’s how to succeed.

Setup

• Containers: egg cartons, yogurt cups, seed trays—anything with drainage.
• Medium: sterile soilless mix (no pathogens, great drainage).
• Labels: waterproof tags—seedlings look alike.

Light & Warmth

Sunny window or fluorescent grow lights (2–3 inches above plants, adjustable). 12–16 hours daily.

Watering

Mist gently—never blast. Cover with humidity dome or plastic bag to retain moisture. Vent daily.

Transplant

Harden off 7–10 days before planting out. Handle by leaves, not stems.

Patience pays. A $3 seed packet yields dozens of healthy plants.