Starting Garden Seeds Indoors: 3 Methods for Successful Seedlings

Starting seeds indoors is easy, inexpensive, and lets you grow unique varieties. At The Garden Glove, we use three methods.

Method 1: Dome-Style Seed Starter Kit

Buy an inexpensive kit (<$10) with humidity dome, soil/soilless cubes. Great for perennials (slower growing). Downside: small cells—fast annuals (sunflowers, squash) outgrow them quickly unless started 2 weeks before last frost.

Moisten medium, plant at packet depth, dome on. Condensation is good initially. Critical: Remove dome once seedlings appear to prevent "damping off" fungal disease. Keep moist, not wet.

Method 2: Recycled Containers (Most Economical)

Use Tupperware, egg cartons, newspaper pots—anything with drainage. Place on a tray (cookie sheet). Enclose tray in clear plastic bag until germination for heat/moisture retention.

Tutorial: Making newspaper pots (Hobby Room Diaries).

Method 3: Portable Greenhouse (Preferred)

Multi-shelf unit with poly "tent" to trap heat/moisture. Move outdoors for daylight; tent keeps warmth even near freezing. Grow hundreds of seedlings. Cautions: Avoid windy conditions; vent on sunny days to prevent overheating. Remove tent when weather warms.

Lighting for Strong Seedlings

Bright, indirect light essential. Windowsill okay temporarily, but artificial light or protected porch is better. Bring in at night; no frost exposure.

DIY light system: Cheap shop light + one warm + one cool 40W fluorescent tube (no need for expensive grow tubes). Hang from chains on 2x4 stand. Keep lights close to seedlings, 12+ hours daily.

Save money and grow special varieties—start your seeds indoors today!