With cold temperatures and winter weather still lingering, local gardeners don’t have to wait for spring to begin planning their gardens. Starting seeds indoors during late winter allows gardeners to get an early start, giving plants more time to establish before moving outdoors. From reviewing seed catalogs and mapping out garden layouts to planting seedlings inside, early preparation can lead to stronger, healthier plants once warmer weather arrives.
When to Start Seeds
- Seed starting time depends on what you are growing, the plant variety, and your local climate.
- In northern New Jersey and nearby areas including Rockland and Westchester counties and the Hudson Valley, the last frost date usually falls between late April and early May. Be sure to check your local date before transplanting any seedlings.
- A common rule of thumb is to start seeds indoors about four to eight weeks before the expected last frost date. This allows seedlings enough time to develop before they are transplanted outdoors.
- Keep in mind the last frost date is an estimate.
- Because frost dates are estimates and weather patterns can vary from year to year, gardeners should monitor conditions and adjust timing as needed.
Start with the Right Equipment
To start seeds indoors, you’ll need containers, seed-starting mix, seeds, water, and adequate light:
- Use peat pots or plugs to start seeds, which help protect roots during transplant.
- Select a high-quality seed-starting mix for young plants.
- Start with quality seeds and follow the packet instructions for planting depth, spacing, and care.
Tips for Successful Seed Starting
- Start with clean containers: Wash containers thoroughly with soap and water.
- Plant seeds at the right depth, specified on their packets.
- Seedlings need 12-16 hours of light per day. If using grow lights, position them about 2 inches above the plants.
- Keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid overwatering by checking regularly.
- Provide ventilation: Airflow is important for preventing disease and promoting strong growth. Open a window or use a fan to circulate the air around your seedlings.
- Harden off your plants: Before transplanting your seedlings outside, gradually expose them to outdoor conditions by placing them outside for a few hours each day.
- Transplant carefully: When it’s time to transplant your seedlings, be gentle. Carefully lift them out of their containers and plant them at the same depth they grew in.
“Starting your garden indoors is a great way to beat the winter blues and get a jump on spring. With the right tools and a little know-how, you can grow strong, healthy plants from seed. Just follow the basics: read your seed packets, provide plenty of light and water, and be patient,” said Stuart Leventhal, owner of Down to Earth Living.
Have you been to Down to Earth Living? Now in its 56th year, Down to Earth Living is a Garden Center serving Rockland, Bergen and Orange counties and the Hudson Valley, offering 12.5 acres filled with perennials, flowers, shrubs, and trees, with new plants arriving weekly. The 10,000-square-foot showroom features a selection of contemporary, classic, traditional, and transitional teak, aluminum, and all-weather dining and deep-seated furniture.
Down to Earth Living is closed for its winter break and will reopen on March 13. For more information, call 845-354-8500 or visit www.dteliving.com.
Down to Earth Living is located a short drive from Bergen County at 1040 Route 45 in Pomona, New York.
Stay Ahead of Spring with This Winter Garden Care Checklist from Down to Earth Living
