Skip to content
How many times have you wondered if outdoor or indoor light is better for your plants? This internal debate seems never-ending. For a while, you may try to keep them in either conditions, only to find them wilting or rotting from excessive or lack of sun exposure. The needs of different plants can vary, for instance, some plantsβlike tomatoes, peppers, and herbsβbenefit from an early indoor start, giving them a head start before transplanting outside. Othersβsuch as carrots, beans, and radishesβprefer to be sown directly outside into the soil, where their roots can grow undisturbed.Β
There are various factors like plant type, climate, and frost dates that matter in a plant's growth. However, the real secret to a flourishing garden lies in how you nurture your plants during the crucial spring season.
In this blog, we will walk you through various expert tips and tricks that will surely help you grow your own garden of veggies, fruits, and flowers this season.Β
Indoor Seed Cultivation Tips in SpringΒ
1. Use a Heat Mat for Faster Germination
When you place a heat mat whose temperature is set at 21β29 Β°C, it warms up the soil and increases the speed of germination by creating a comfortable environment for seeds to sprout quickly. This has been most beneficial for plants like tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, basil, and other plants that are fond of heat.
2. Harden Off Your Seedlings Before Transplanting
Before you transplant your seed, you are supposed to gradually expose the seedlings to outdoor conditions. You can start with an hour and increase day by day. This helps in reducing the transplant shock to the plant and makes it suitable for sunlight and wind.
3. Choose Shallow Containers for Even Moisture
Always use a seed tray or a container, probably 1-2 inches deep, with holes to maintain equal water level because if the water level is too much or too low, it will lead to the rotting of the root. Itβs been found to be very effective for broccoli, lettuce, spinach, and other small seeds.
4. Thin Out Seedlings to Prevent Overcrowding
When the seedlings come up with their first set of true leaves, snip the ones that are weak at the soil level with the help of a knife or a scissor to let the plant grow stronger. It helps reduce the competition for all the minerals and resources and reduces the risk of diseases forming.Β
5. Use a Timer for Grow Lights
Whenever you turn on a light for them, which helps them grow, always use a timer. It should feel like natural light to them, so turn it on for 12-16 hours only. It is also important to keep the light at least 2-4 inches away from the seedlings. Light-dependent plants, such as peppers and various herbs, benefit greatly from this approach..
6. Avoid Fertilizing Too Early
Always wait until the seedling has at least two sets of leaves before you use any kind of fertilisers, as at such an early stage, they tend to burn the roots. Growing flowers and other sensitive plants is said to work best with this method.
7. Transplant at the Right Time
When you plan to transplant seedlings, make sure they have at least 2-4 sets of true leaves and the temperature and weather conditions outside are stable. This will help your plant establish strong roots. Plants like squash, cucumber, and other spring mix seedsβ plants tend to benefit from it a lot.Β
Outdoor Seed Cultivation Tips in SpringΒ
1. Check Soil Temperature Before Planting
Always use a soil thermometer to check the temperature of the soil by putting it at a depth of 1-2 inches, as it will help in the effective germination of the plants and reduce the chances of rotting. Different seeds have different optimal germination temperatures. Like:
-
Marigolds: 70β75Β°F
-
Carrots: 45β85Β°F
-
Cilantro: 50β85Β°F
-
Sunflowers: 70β85Β°FΒ
-
Peppers: 65β95Β°F
-
Thyme: 60β75Β°F
2. Direct Sow Hardy Crops for Stronger Plants
It is advised to sow the cold and hardy seeds, like lettuce, reddish, and peas, directly into the garden soil instead of starting them indoors. It encourages stronger root systems and prevents the damage to the roots that happens when you transplant.
3. Use Row Covers to Protect from Frost
Always drape a lightweight row cover made of a net, as it will help keep the seeds protected from birds until the seedlings are established. It is said to be most beneficial for sunflowers, peas, beans, and other spring seeds, as they are favorites of most birds.Β
4. Water in the Morning to Prevent Fungal Growth
The morning hour is the best for watering your plants so that throughout the day, the moisture gets absorbed and your plant doesn't rot. It also reduces the risk of mold, mildew, and other fungal diseases.
5. Sow Seeds in Batches for Continuous Harvests
Make sure you stagger the plants every now and then instead of sowing all seeds at once. It provides a steady supply of nutrients and minerals to the crops in small batches, and you don't have to harvest a large amount of crops.
6. Mulch to Retain Moisture and Suppress Weeds
Mulch is small pieces of hay straw, wood chips, and dry grass, which, when applied as a 1-2 inch layer on the crops, helps in retaining moisture and even out the temperature of the soil.Β
7. Mark Your Rows to Avoid Disrupting Germination
Always use a garden marker, string, or sticks to outline seed rows. It helps in preventing people or yourself from trampling or weeding emerging seedlings. It is said to be the best way to grow crops like carrots and onions.
Conclusion
Using a mix of indoor seed-starting and direct sowing can help you grow stronger, healthier plants while making the most of your gardening space and season. Starting seeds indoors gives delicate plants a head start, while direct sowing works best for hardy crops that donβt like to be moved. By following these simple techniques, you can boost your gardenβs success and enjoy a steady supply of fresh vegetables and herbs. So, get started today and watch your garden thrive!
Β
