Use clean inexpensive containers. Egg cartons make great containers and yes as pictured here so do toilet paper rolls. Quit laughing! Remember to poke holes in the sides near the bottom of the containers you use. Label your containers! Fill clean containers with seedling mix. Use soilless peat moss and mix in equal parts (vermiculite and perlite). Don't use potting soil. Pour soilless mix into a large bucket and moisten with warm water. Fill your containers to just below the rim.
*** For Future Reference ***
When the time comes plant your seeds according to your seed packet. Most seeds can simply be gently pressed into the mixture; you can use the eraser end of a pencil to push in seeds. Cover containers with plastic. Prick holes with a toothpick for ventilation. Water as directed. Find a place in the kitchen where there is natural bottom heat—on top of the refrigerator is a great spot. Seeds sprout best at temperatures of 65 to 75°F (18 to 24°C). When seedlings appear, remove the plastic and move containers into bright light. When the seedlings get their second pair of leaves, prepare individual pots filled with a potting mix with plenty of compost. Move the seedlings carefully to the new pots and water well. Keep pots out of direct sun for a few days. This takes you up to transplanting your seedlings, which we will cover tomorrow. Again, I know some of this information is early but you don't want to be figuring it out the day you need to be doing it. Below is a chart of the best dates to plant your seeds indoors.
February 8 - 22
Broccoli, Brussels Sprouts, Cabbage, Cauliflower, Celery, Lettuce, Peppers and Tomatoes
March 8 - 23
Cucumbers, Melons, Pumpkins and Squash
