Simple tips for seed-starting success

Early spring is the time for planning out your beautiful flower beds and edible gardens. By thinking ahead and starting your plants from seed, you'll save money and have the satisfaction of doing it yourself. And remember, seed starting is a great family project. Kids love planting and checking the results. Whether you're a curious beginner or a garden veteran, this is a skill you can easily master . . .

• Determine your area's last frost date. The general rule of thumb is to plant your seeds indoors about 6 weeks prior to this date, but check the directions on each seed packet for exceptions. The easiest way to determine your area's last frost date is to contact your local extension service.
• Only start seeds that can be transplanted. If the packet says the seeds should be "direct sown" (planted directly into the garden), you don't want to start them indoors because they won't adapt well when transplanted.
• Use small peat pots. These soft-walled, natural containers allow you to try lots of different plants within a small space. Then when it's time to transplant, you can lessen shock by planting these containers directly into your garden. Mini greenhouse kits (like the Jiffy-7 Professional Greenhouse) include pellets enriched with plant food to give your seeds a healthy start. A reusable domed tray lets in light while creating a humid environment, keeping seeds safe until they can make it on their own.
• Use packaged soil mixes specifically formulated for starting seeds. It's easier than mixing your own soil, and you won't have to worry about stray weeds. Try professional-quality Jiffy Mix, made of Canadian sphagnum peat moss and perlite, ideal for starting seeds and cuttings.
• Plant seeds at the right depth. Check each seed packet for specifics, but the general "rule of green thumb" is to cover seeds to a depth twice their diameter.
• Be extra careful with watering. To avoid dislodging seeds, water peat pots by placing them in about an inch of water in a sink or tub. Or if you're using one of the mini greenhouses described above, just pour about an inch of water into the tray. The water will soak in through the bottom of the pots, gently watering the seeds and preventing over-watering.
• Keep plants warm and moist. A windowsill greenhouse makes it easy to maintain the necessary temperature and humidity.

Save time by picking up seeds, trays, good seed-starting soil, tools, gloves and gardening books all in one stop at your Fred Meyer Garden Center.

While much of the information in these tips is applicable in several gardening zones/climates, some of the plants and timing suggested are best suited to the Northwest, generally in the mild/wet growing regions found along the I-5 corridor. You should make appropriate adjustments or consult local gardening experts in regions whose climates differ from this area of the Northwest.