How to Start Seeds Indoors for your Seattle Garden
It is that time of year and gardeners all around the Pacific Northwest are already thinking about what they will grow in their vegetable garden this year. Now is the time to get those seeds started to make sure your veggies have plenty of time to grow and ripen before fall rolls in. You will find everything you need to get a jump on your spring planting at Greenwood Hardware.
Some vegetables require a longer growing season than the mild Pacific Northwest climate can provide, which is why starting early and taking advantage of every warm summer day is crucial to a successful harvest. Some of the seeds you will want to start now indoors, so they are ready to go in the garden in early June are as follows.
- Tomatoes
- Peppers
- Melons
- Pumpkins
- Cucumbers
- Squash
- Onions
You will need to pick up some supplies to get your vegetable garden off to a great start.
- Seeds
- Seed starting soil (this is different than potting soil)
- Seed trays (you can also use small pots)
- Plant markers and a waterproof pen to mark each of the seed pots
- Grow light—this is an excellent tool, especially for the cloudy spring weather
- Heated seed mats—not absolutely necessary, but can improve germination and speed up germination times
- Spray bottle for gently dampening the soil
Once you have your supplies, you are ready to plant your seeds. Place the seed trays in a sunny window or a greenhouse. Small greenhouses that fit on your deck or patio are perfect. These are inexpensive and can be used every year.
Keep the seeds moist throughout the germination period. You may need to transplant your seedlings to larger pots if the weather isn’t quite ready for your plants to be put in the garden. Container gardening is also an excellent option and allows you to grow vegetables right on your back patio. You can move the plants indoors when temperatures are going to be cool to protect the plants.
Head into Greenwood Hardware to pick up everything you need to get your vegetable garden off on the right foot this year! Come on in, or contact us today.