The Budget Casa

If you’ve been to your neighborhood garden or home-improvement center recently, you know that those little seed packets are beginning to show up. Starting seeds can be a cost-effective way to get a jump start on your spring gardening.

Here are three essentials for optimizing your seeds.

Warm them up
Almost all seeds need a warm soil (70-75°F) to germinate. Your seeds will thrive and flourish in consistently warm temperatures. When considering an area in your home to start seeds, be sure to choose a spot with consistent warm temperatures and free of drafts.

Water
Seeds and seedlings require water to grow. Never let the soil dry out – be sure to water your pots regularly. However, don’t water too much or you might harm or even kill your little sprouts. Moderation is key.

Light them up
New seedling need light to develop and grow. Place your sprouts in a sunny south-facing area of your home and your plants will grow well. If this isn’t possible, use fluorescent lights.

For an all-in-one seed-starting kit, try the Burpee Ultimate Growing System. The $19.95 kit includes everything you need to start your seeds: a watering tray, plant tray, plant stand, self-watering mat, greenhouse top, plant markers, and Burpee Super Growing Cubes.â„¢