It may seem like there is nothing going on in February but all the action starts happening this month. If you've never started any of your plants from seed, I'm here to give you the push to try!

There will never be anything more satisfying when it comes to gardening than pulling produce off a plant that you grew from a tiny seed. It is the ultimate flex to say "I grew that from seed".

Some lessons will have corresponding videos to watch or resource sheets to open. Make sure you follow along step by step. I'm excited for you to try seed starting!

Welcome

Lesson 1 - Sourcing Seeds & Seed Storage

Lesson 2 : Containers and Trays

Lesson 3: Soil

Lesson 4: Seed Starting Tutorial

Lesson 5: Heat & Light, Air Flow

Lesson 6: Last Frost Date & Planning

Lesson 7: Troubleshooting

Lesson 8: Hardening Off

Hardening off is the process of acclimating your sensitive plant starts to the harsh outdoor environment. Although our grow lights are bright, the sun is way more powerful. Follow this schedule to quickly get your plant starts ready for transplanting.

Day 1:
Place plants outside in a shady, protected spot for 1-2 hours. Avoid direct sunlight to prevent scorching.
Bring plants inside after time is up.
Day 2:
Increase outdoor time to 2-3 hours.
Move plants to a location with slightly more sunlight.
Monitor plants for any signs of stress.
Day 3:
Extend outdoor duration to 4 hours.
Introduce plants to a bit more direct sunlight.
Keep them protected from the strongest midday sun.
Day 4:
Place plants outside for 5-6 hours.
Increase exposure to direct sunlight.
Watch for wind stress, provide some protection if necessary.
Day 5:
Outdoor time should be 6-7 hours.
Position plants in near-final location, increasing sun and wind exposure.
Ensure they're not in the harshest conditions yet.
Day 6 (if needed):
Leave plants outside for a full day (7-8 hours).
Move to final location if not already done, ensuring they're accustomed to a full day's conditions.
Overnight outside if forecast is mild and above the plant's tolerance level. Otherwise, bring them in for one last night.
Tips:

Watering: Keep the soil moist but not soaking; morning is the best time.
Watch the weather: If unexpected cold snaps or severe weather is forecast, adjust accordingly.
Post-hardening: Transition plants to their final growing location, either planting them in the ground or moving containers to their permanent spots.
Remember, hardening off is about gradually introducing plants to new conditions, so monitor them closely and adjust the schedule based on how they respond.

 

Lesson 9: When to Transplant