Seed starting is an easy and fun way to grow your own flowers, vegetables and herbs. Hicks Nurseries carries thousands of varieties of seeds from Burpee, Harts, Lake Valley, Pagano and Botanical Interests. We offer a large selection of organic seeds as well.
Take a look at our tips below and as always, if you have any questions we’re here for you! Leave a comment below, email us at HicksInfo@HicksNurseries.com, call us at 516-334-0066, reach out to us on social media or stop by the store anytime.
Seed Starting Basics
1. Seeds. Seed starting is an opportunity to grow varieties that may not be easy to find for purchase as plants. Have a little fun and get the entire family involved in the process. Some easy-to-grow vegetables include beans, peas and peppers. Easy to grow flowers include marigolds, zinnias and alyssum.
2. Containers. It’s best to start with small planters or cell packs.
3. Soil. Choose an organic seed starting medium. Press the soil gently into each container.
4. Water. Lightly moisten the soil prior to planting.
5 Seeding. Add 2-3 seeds per cell. Press the seeds gently into the soil. Then cover with an additional sprinkling of soil.
6. Label. Use plant tags to identify what you planted and the date.
7. Warmth. Cover the entire flat with plastic wrap. Some cell trays come with plastic dome covers. Place the flat or pots in the warmest area of your home. Most seeds germinate when temperatures reaches 70 degrees. Once the first leaves begin to break through the soil, uncover the flat and move the seedlings to a brightly lit location.
8. Transplant. Once the seedlings outgrow their containers, transplant them into larger containers.
9. Harden Off. About a week before planting outside you will need to acclimate the seedlings to the outdoor sunlight and temperatures. Do this by placing the plants outside during a warm sunny day under shade and bring them indoors at night. At the end of the week plant the seedling in the ground and continue to water and care for the plants as needed.