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Seed Starting 101
Tiny Seeds, Huge Rewards: Seed Starting 101
There's magic in starting seeds indoors and watching them transform into thriving plants. From indoor pot to outdoor garden plot, we're here to help you at every step of your seed starting journey!
What To Know Before You Start
Know Your Zone
Check the Hardiness Zones on your seed packet to make sure they will do well outdoors in your planting zone.
Timing Is Everything
Start seeds indoors about 6 weeks before you plan to move them outdoors or the last expected frost date in your area.
Not All Seeds Love the Indoors
Root vegetables like carrots, beets, and potatoes prefer to be started outdoors. Make sure to refer to your seed packet.
Gather Your Supplies
Seeds
Vegetables, herbs, or flowers!
Containers
At least 2" deep with drainage holes
Soil
Our indoor potting mix is great for seed starting
Labels
Mark seedlings to avoid mix-ups
Covers
Plastic wrap, bags, or domes
Light
Sunny window or grow lights
Miracle-Gro
Miracle-Gro
Miracle-Gro
Miracle-Gro
How to Start Seeds Indoors
Prep
Fill pot with moistened seed starting soil.
Light
Place by a sunny window or under a grow light.
Plant
Add 2-3 seeds per pot. Follow seed packet for depth.
Water
Use a spray bottle to keep soil moist but not soggy.
Cover
Use plastic wrap or bags to keep moisture in.
Thin
If multiple sprouts, cut the weaker sprout at soil level.
How to Transplant Seedlings Outdoors
When your seedlings have 3-4 true leaves, they’re ready for the great outdoors! Here’s how to give them a smooth moving day.
Prep for Outdoor Life
Acclimate seedlings by placing them outside for a few hours daily for 1-2 weeks, starting with shade and increasing to full sun.
Prep the Soil
For in-ground transplanting, loosen soil if compacted. Mix 3 inches of Miracle-Gro Organicâ„¢ Raised Bed & Garden Soil into the top 6 inches of native soil.
For raised beds, start fresh or top off with our Organic Raised Bed & Garden soil.
Plant with Care
Dig a hole just deep enough for the root ball. Remove seedlings from tray cells or containers, carefully place them in their planting holes, and cover roots with soil.
Water
Add Miracle-Gro® Quick Start® Planting & Transplant Starting Solution to your watering can and water immediately. Water again once the top 1-2 inches of soil is dry.
