In this post you will find all of the supplies needed to start seeds indoors successfully!
For me, the biggest thrill of growing from seeds is that I can grow rare or exotic varieties of vegetables that I can’t find in stores. But even the regular stuff tastes a zillion times better when it’s homegrown!
Now let’s get right into the supplies needed to start seeds indoors 🙂
SEED TRAYS WITH VENTED HUMIDITY DOME:
I used these last year and purchased more again this year. They are sturdy, come in nice colors (I bought some in pink and some in white) and reusable year to year: https://amzn.to/3064SJC
I purchased 72 cell trays for the first time this year and while they are flimsier than the ones above, they are large trays and have bigger individual cells. The ones that I purchased are no longer available (Mr. Sprout) but these look similar to mine: https://amzn.to/3uHifhn
TRAYS FOR THE TRAYS:
Sounds ridiculous but you will need something like this. Trust. I corral my seedling trays onto baking sheets to be able to easily transport the multiple smaller seed trays and to easily water from the bottom. If you don’t have a zillion extra baking sheets like me, you can purchase cafeteria trays like this: https://amzn.to/3uKCsTj
HEAT MAT:
Most seeds require heat to germinate (unless specified otherwise on your seed packet). The exact one I have is sold out however this one looks similar, has good reviews and is exactly the same size as mine: https://amzn.to/3uN4Ynr
GROW LIGHT:
Most seeds also require light to germinate (unless specified otherwise on your seed packet). Please don’t skip the grow light and rely on a window. You will have weak and leggy plants. Get the grow light. I have this one and love it: https://amzn.to/3rbA0mO
FOLDING TABLE:
If you don’t have a designated table for your seedlings, I HIGHLY recommend one of these six foot folding tables. You will not regret this purchase, trust me. In addition to seed starting, I use it just about every single time we have company to set up a buffet, etc. Truly invaluable and tucks away into barely any space at all. You know, the old school beruit/beer pong tables!! 🙂 https://amzn.to/3uOB6XS And here is a waterproof tablecloth because…we like pretty things 🙂 https://amzn.to/3e1A2d7
PLANT TAGS:
Always remember to tag your seedlings!! I use these and they’re great. You do have to cut a bit off the bottom to fit the humidity dome on the tray but no biggie. https://amzn.to/2OaGCDf. Some seed tray sets come with tags but I always like having extra!
WATERPROOF AND SUNPROOF MARKER:
A regular Sharpie or pen will fade. Learn from my mistake! Use this: https://amzn.to/3bOIqdi
SEEDLING WATER SPRAYER:
It’s important to carefully water newly planted seedlings. We can’t use a regular watering can because it will dislodge the delicate seeds. This is BEYOND worth the few bucks that it costs 🙂 https://amzn.to/3uNBENK
ORGANIC SEED STARTING MIX:
Seed starting mix is required to start seeds, not regular potting mix. The reason is that seed starting mix is significantly lighter and easier for new baby seedlings to establish their roots. I use this one: https://amzn.to/3q9JRrN
VERMICULITE:
This is one of my seed starting secrets. You sprinkle a little on top of the your planted seeds before watering and it helps trap in moisture. Seedlings require consistent moisture to germinate and this is a lifesaver! https://amzn.to/3q9JRrN
INDOOR WATERING CAN:
This is great to use after your seedlings have germinated and you are beginning to water directly on the baking trays (to water from below). https://amzn.to/382U3Mt
A FAN:
A fan blowing on your seedlings makes them stronger and prepares them for the great outdoors! Any simple fan (or an open window with a breeze) will do. https://amzn.to/3bOUECI
SEEDS:
Last but not least, you will need….SEEDS 🙂
With the current pandemic, seeds have been harder to come by online this year. Do not buy seeds from Amazon because the quality isn’t regulated. It’s really important that you buy quality seeds. I recommend going to your local garden center and purchasing seed packets from them. Even your local big box stores like Lowes and Home Depot will sell quality seed packets.
As for online seeds, these are suppliers that I have purchased from in the past:
Johnny’s Selected Seeds: http://bit.ly/380FHMU
Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds: https://www.rareseeds.com
Renee’s Garden Seeds: https://www.reneesgarden.com
Botanical Interests: https://www.botanicalinterests.com
MIGardener: https://migardener.com
Floret Flowers: https://www.floretflowers.com
Now get those seeds started!!
Please take pics and take me in posts! @alwaysElaina on Facebook and Instagram! I would love to see your progress!! And of course I am here for any questions as well!!!
To follow along on my garden and home adventures, join in on the fun @alwaysElaina on Facebook and Instagram!! Hope to see you there!! xoxoxo
Pin this post for later:
