Hi friends!

The weather has been up and down this spring, per usual, and a hard frost took down the snapdragons I planted out last week...sad day. I've got more than I know what to do with, so I'm ready for round two! We are looking forward to some warmer temps this week. I'm planting a few things out right now (zone 6a) like calendula, chamomile, dill, broccoli, and a few others. Additionally, I've direct-sown some spinach and other leafy greens.

There is no perfect timing to any of this, but watching the weather and getting a sense of what a cold-hardy plant can tolerate versus warm-loving plants can make a big difference without being too worried about exactness.

I experimented with seed snails for the first time this year, and the jury is still out. Calendula loved it, chamomile not so much.

I’ve been getting a few questions about how I start my seeds, and it’s pretty simple. Nothing fancy, just free-spirited and fun!

I thought I’d share what equipment I am using right now in case you’re starting (or restarting) a little garden of your own this spring.

Soil blockers

When I first started, I used the plastic seed cells because some friends gave them to me. You know how I feel about waste, so last year I moved to soil blocking. Either route works, but if you can get something reusable, that is encouraged.

Seed trays

These are important for keeping your seed-starting cells in place and allowing them to be watered from the bottom, which is what you want. I like the 1020 size with no drainage holes for standard seed starting.

Basic seed starting mix​
A simple, good-quality mix makes all the difference in getting things going well. As I gain more experience, I am mixing my own seed soil, but you don't have to. If you do want to mix your own, try a brick of coconut coir with about 1 quart of perlite. Sometimes, I throw in some worm castings as well, but it isn't crucial

Grow lights​
These keep everything from getting leggy and struggling. Some people like to put their trays against a windowsill, and that could work. But if you want true success, I'd go with some grow lights. When I first started looking for lights, I was totally overwhelmed. Getting the right specs was a little challenging. There's a lot to pick from. These are by far my favorites, and they work really well. Lightweight, LED, they plug into each other if you need to extend your space. They're fantastic.

A simple watering can​
Nothing special, just something gentle enough not to disturb tiny seedlings. I can't find my exact watering can online, but here is a good option. I prefer a stream as opposed to a shower spout. I think it's easier to get water in the tray that way.

Fertilizer

Your seeds will need fertilizer once they germinate. This fish emulsion is great because you just dilute it in water once per week as part of your watering routine. It's a little smelly, but doesn't linger super long, and if you can get some ventilation in your seed area, it's not too bad.

Labels (because I always think I’ll remember… and don’t)​
G is in the process of making me some custom labels! If I am being honest, you can just use an old piece of cardboard or cut up a yogurt container. No need to purchase these, but I did link some in case you want to.

Timer

This isn't the exact timer I have, but if I bought another one, this is the one I would get. This is a good idea, so you can set it and forget it without having to remember to turn the lights on or off.

Shelving

Depending on the size of your space, these shelves are really nice for seed starting. I bought two, each about 2 feet wide and 1 foot deep. If I had more space, I would get something with greater depth so I could fit more trays on one shelf.

Did this cover it for you? Let me know if there's anything I missed that you'd like to see. Here is a short reel of my setup :) Also, if you're local and need some seedlings, let me know. I grew way too much!

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You can do this in so many different ways, and please use what you already have before purchasing. My first year starting seeds indoors, I used borrowed equipment and made do with what I had on hand.

If you're doing this for the first time, all you need is a little space, a bit of intention, and the willingness to tend to something over time.

If you’ve been thinking about starting a garden, even a small one, this is your sign that you don’t need much to get going.

And if you’re planting this season, I’d love to hear what you’re growing!

Happy gardening,

Jodie