Starting Tomato Seeds Indoors: Pots, Soil, and Feeding Schedule

Container Progression

1. Germination: Sow in 6‑pack cells or small plugs.
2. First transplant (4 weeks): Move to 4‑ or 6‑inch pots. Plant deeper — bury stem to just below lowest leaves.
3. Second transplant (optional): Upgrade to larger pots if needed before hardening off.

Seed‑Starting Mix

Use a soilless blend (vermiculite, perlite, peat moss). Garden soil compacts and may harbor disease. Commercial seed‑starting mixes are widely available.

Watering and Fertilizing

• Keep mix slightly moist — water when surface feels dry.
• No fertilizer until seedlings are 4 weeks old.
• Then apply starter fertilizer (or organic options like fish emulsion or kelp) at half strength every 2 weeks.

Light Is Critical

Weak, leggy stems = insufficient light. A sunny window rarely provides enough intensity in late winter. Use fluorescent or LED grow lights 2–3 inches above plants for 12–14 hours daily.