Do I Need Grow Lights to Start Seeds and Seedlings?

I'm in zone 7b and I've never used grow lights, but I do swear by heat mats. They really help with germination and I think that's what you should consider if you're on the fence about lights.

Using light or heat mats can really help, but you can definitely wait until after the last frost to start seeds outside. It really depends on how much space you have and your garden plans for the year. So, weigh those options!

This is my first year starting seeds and I just got an $8 shop light! It seems like a budget-friendly option that could work well to start things off right. If you're starting tomatoes, I've heard they need light pretty early — about 8-10 weeks before the last frost. Hope that helps!

For those of us in areas with a shorter growing season, like zones 5b or 6a, starting seeds indoors is pretty essential. Some plants, like eggplants, really crave a lot of light. I've found that just having a sunny window isn't enough for them. Grow lights can make a huge difference!