Start small.  Start with easy to germinate and grow species such as:  tomatoes, peppers, squash, zinnias, marigolds and sunflowers.  If you have never started your own seeds at home or are a new gardener, here are some helpful tips to make the process successful!


lLocation
Utilize an area in your house or garage with the least amount of temperature fluctuation and good air flow.  Pick a location that's okay to get a little messy.

lDaylight vs. Supplemental Lighting
Natural light can actually lower the quality of the seedlings since they are apt to stretch towards the light in one direction instead of upwards.  The potential for burning tender first leaves is also a possibility.  If daylight is your lighting source, be sure to turn the pots often and watch for damage.  Supplemental lighting provides a more even growth and stockier seedlings.  Lights should be adjustable to raise and lower according to seedling height.  Once your seedling have germinated make sure there is ample light.      

lSoil Mixture
Do not use potting mixture to start seedlings.  They may contain fertilizers that can be detrimental to germinating seeds.  The best choice is a seed starting mix which is lighter than potting soil and less likely to compact.

lContainters
Plug trays work well and have the advantage of only 1 seedling per cell.  They allow you to start a large number of plants in a small area.  Transplanting into larger containers is necessary prior to planting in your garden.  Jiffy pots are a handy alternative.  They are available in different sizes, promote good root growth and there is no need to transplant up to larger sizes before setting outdoors.

lWatering
It is better to use a light spray mister when watering young seedlings.  Misting provides light, even moisture for tender seedlings.  Keep germinating seedlings moderately moist but not wet.  Wet soil leads to disease problems.  Using domes helps maintain moisture.  You can also water from the bottom by placing your seed tray in a few inches of water and let the water wick up into the soil.

lFertilizing
Do not fertilize too often or too early.  Fertilize seedlings once they have started to put on true leaves.

lTransplanting
Seed packets inform you of number of weeks from sow to transplant.  Jiffy pots are biodegradable and can be planted directly into the garden.  Seedlings started in trays should be gently removed and placed into a pot or container with moist soil.  Be sure to wash hands prior to transplanting any seedling.

lHardening Off
As your seedlings mature, you'll need to get them used to the idea of being outdoors and subject to the sun, wind and cool nights.  About two weeks before transplanting time, set them outside in a protected area for an hour or two at first, then gradually increase their exposure until transplanting day.  Be careful not to overdo it and never leave them out when it frosts.

lPlanting
Young plants can be placed in your garden or flower beds after the threat of frost has passed in your area. 
 
lDigging Safely
Whether your flower beds and gardens are old or new, contacting JULIE prior to digging is an important step to spring planting.  When rototilling and/or digging you could be in danger of hitting underground utility lines. That's why it's crucial to call 811 or fill out an e-request on JULIE's Web site. Since the depth of utility lines varies, there may be multiple utility lines in the area where you want to dig. That's why every digging project requires a call. You may think, I already know where the utility lines are located or this particular project is not in an area that needs marking. Those are dangerous assumptions. One easy phone call to 811 gets your underground utility lines marked for free.