Guide to Indoor Seed Planting

As memories of a snowy holiday fade, we get that feeling for warmer ideas and a push to get outdoors. A great way to deflect the reality of a long winter is to start your indoor planting. February and especially March are exceptional months to plant seeds near a windowsill where light is abundant. Once you've established you want a garden or gardens, you can decide which seeds to grow. Mix and color are important and will determine what you decide to plant. The best way to pick from seeds like marigold and zinnias is to page through gardening magazines or take pictures of landscaping at your local botanical garden. You're taste will soon dictate the types of plants and flowers you'll want to enjoy all spring and summer. You don't have to leave landscaping decisions up to a professional. It could cost you dearly and more importantly, no one knows your likes and dislikes better than you do.

When starting seeds indoors, timing is everything. You don't want to plant certain seeds too early. The ground needs to be warm enough when transplanting your plant outdoors. Most seed packages will have directions and suggestions for starting your growing indoors based on the climate and conditions you are living in. Advice isn't hard to come by at your local garden supply store. Many sales consultants have spring fever as well and are chomping at the bit to share their gardening expertise with fellow enthusiasts, so guidance is just a short drive away.

Once you have your seeds, the next step is to pick a pot. Seeds can be started in an egg or used food carton. If you're feeling less adventurous and want everything to be perfect, starter kits are available at garden centers and most discount drug stores. But if you're like most indoor gardeners, you most likely take the frugal route to starting your seeds and choose whatever container you can get your hands on. The one area you don't want to hold back on is soil. You'll want to use good organic soil, something that has a good amount of peat or chopped bark. Simply venturing out into the yard with a shovel and digging up some frozen dirt won't do. You want to give your seeds the best chance of growing in a healthy environment.

Don't forget to water your new seeds. The right amount but not too much is crucial for survival. A good rule of thumb is to keep the soil moist but not soggy. Also try to get into a watering routine like everyday before you eat breakfast. This will help you remember that its not only you time to eat but your new seeds time as well.