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 Plants started indoors may need the protection of a coldframe after being moved outdoors. See more pictures of vegetable gardens. |
Your first consideration is when to plant. If you plant too early, seedlings will become weak and leggy, which is not much of a start for a productive garden. Use the average date of last frost as a reference point for when to plant each vegetable in the garden. Remember, some vegetables will be planted in the garden several weeks before this date, others near or on this date, and yet others a few weeks after this date. From the planting date, count back six to eight weeks; as a general rule, you can sow seeds indoors on this date. Large-seeded varieties, such as squash and watermelon, should be started only four weeks prior to garden planting.
Light -- You'll need a place to start seedlings that gets several hours of light each day. Even close to a window, seedlings often stretch, trying to reach toward the light. If artificial lights are used, the bulbs must not produce too much heat. Fluorescent lights or special plant lights produce plenty of light without excessive heat.
Heat/Temperature -- Different varieties of vegetables require different temperatures to germinate. Most seeds will germinate well at 70 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Some varieties require cooler temperatures; the seed packet will tell you the precise temperature required. Heating pads are available through garden centers and gardening supply mail-order companies, but a warm spot in the room can often be used.
Water -- Since many seeds are small and easily displaced in the soil, it's best to soak the seedling tray in water to absorb water from the bottom drainage holes. Seeds will die if they are allowed to dry out after they have started to germinate.
Planting Medium -- The soil you sow seeds and grow young plants in must be light and sterile to prevent a deadly seedling disease called damping-off. It's best to purchase a seed-starter medium from a reputable garden center. Garden soil is too heavy and may contain weed seeds or disease organisms.
Containers -- Containers can be store-bought seedling trays or pots or items such as aluminum trays, paper cups, or other kitchen items as long as they can hold the medium and contain adequate drainage holes. Small-seeded varieties may be started in trays and later separated and transplanted to individual containers. Large-seeded varieties should be started in individual containers from the start; their roots do not appreciate being disturbed while being separated. Plantable containers such as peat-pots are handy. These are made of compressed peat, and the pot can be planted in the garden.
Want more information about vegetable gardens? Visit these links:
- Planting a Vegetable Garden: Read our guide to getting your vegetable garden in the ground and growing.
- Vegetable Gardens: Find out everything you wanted to know about vegetable gardening.
- Vegetables: Pick out your favorite vegetables to plant in next year's garden.
- Gardening: We answer all of your general gardening questions in this section.
- Planting a Garden: Whether you're growing cucumbers or columbines, we have all the information you need to nurture a thriving garden.
