Starting Plants from Seed Indoors

Fill an egg carton or a shallow container that will drain well with a potting mix specifically formulated for starting seeds. If growing a large number of seeds, you may consider making your own lightweight seeding soil using sphagnum peat moss and perlite. Sprinkle with seeds onto the surface of the mix and cover with more mix as desired for the seed varieties planted. Set the container in a tray of water to moisten, or sprinkle water on the mix gently with your hands, or use a spray bottle to water the seeds to keep them from being dislodged.

Slip the container into a plastic bag to keep it warm and moist. Position a room thermometer nearby to make sure the temperature is right for the type of seed (check the package). After a few days or weeks, once the seeds germinate, remove the bag.