Make sure your seed starting trays or pots have holes for proper drainage. If you choose to plant in a pot rather than starting in trays, a six inch (15 cm) pot should be good enough to start. Look for a soil that is made especially for starting seeds, or make your own by combining 1 part each of peat moss, vermiculite, and perlite. [2] X Research source
Remember to check your hardiness zone to make sure you are growing a plant that will survive in your area if you plan to keep it outdoors or transplant it later on. [4] X Research source Look at your local nursery or farmer’s market for seeds that have been carefully screened and selected for quality.
It is also sometimes recommended that a thin layer of sand be added to the bottom of the pot before soil to promote better drainage.
Your seed packet will also tell you the best time of year to start sowing your seeds, if you plan on keeping the pots outdoors.
You can use toothpicks to tweezers to help you distribute and press in larger seeds.
If you live in an area where sunlight or temperature is variable, you may also consider purchasing a sun lamp or heating mats to help encourage your seeds to grow. Some seed starting trays come with a cover to create a warm, moist environment for the seeds. Keep this on until the seeds sprout from the soil. If you don’t have a cover, you can slip a plastic bag over the pot to keep moisture in until the seeds sprout. Keep the seeds out of direct sunlight while the cover is on, or they will overheat.
