I've dabbled in gardening a bit in the past, using plastic totes to grow some simple plants, which was a learning experience since it was my first time keeping a plant alive! This year, I'm excited to build a raised bed and dive deeper into gardening, but I have a lot of questions. We're in zone 6, with our last frost around early May, and here's what I'm curious about:
- Should I set up a little greenhouse to start some seeds?
- Are these grow lights I found on Amazon sufficient for starting plants indoors? (Wolezek Grow Lights, 6000K LED)
- If I start seeds in a basement greenhouse, do I need a heating mat?
- Are biodegradable seed starter trays good for transplanting? What's the best way to handle them—should I take the plant out or keep it in the pot when transplanting?
I'd love any suggestions on things to grow, best practices for starting seeds, or companion planting advice. Thanks for any help!
2 Answers
When using biodegradable pots, keep an eye on the moisture. They can wick moisture away, especially if they dry out, which is a disadvantage. When you transplant, ensure the surrounding soil stays damp to help the pot degrade. If it doesn’t stay moist enough, it can block the roots from accessing nutrients, leading to circling roots which isn't good. I usually tear off the bottom or sides of the pot to let the roots break through easily. And yes, starting your seeds can save you money and let you try rare tomato varieties! Prices for plants have gone up, so it's definitely worth it. Take the plunge into unique cultivars!
Definitely invest in a little greenhouse, especially since you're in zone 6. I have one in my basement for starting seeds, and it's been super helpful. Just make sure to include a small fan inside to keep air circulation going—set it to low and point it away from the plants. As for grow lights, you don’t need to go overboard; just get ones with timers to make your life easier. You might want to consider getting a heating mat if you're planning a lot of seedlings; it can really help them get going. And when it comes to biodegradable pots, I recommend using individual ones rather than large trays to make your life easier when planting. Just remember to follow the seed packet directions and you should be good to go! Good luck!
That’s a big variety list! We’re trying ‘Bodacious’ tomatoes this year, too, just because the name is fun. I totally understand the frustration with seed prices; they can run $2.50-$3.00 a packet pretty quick! I also used peat cells, so it sounds like we’re in the same boat. Just a heads up, I’ve had issues with them staying wet. Good luck! Also, how’s the potting soil treating you? Getting some nutrients in there sounds smart!