You are thinking about starting your annual crop of seeds, right? Well, whether you are a novice or old pro, here are a few things to consider before propagating your pretty bloomers and nutricious eats....

First and foremost, obtain fresh, high quality seeds. Older seeds are slower to germinate and statistically, fewer of them do actually germinate. Every species is different but normally vegetable seeds can be stored in proper conditions up to 3 and 4 years. Flower seeds typically can be stored in proper conditions around 3 years. Remember, the fresher the seed, the better the germination and plant vigor.

Follow this short guideline for an ideal germinating environment: Click on the blue links for product info.

1. Disease-free soil and pots-It is best to use new containers or sterilized ones and new soil.

2. Moisture-(for germination and seedlings)

3. Moisture-(for seeds and cuttings)

4. Aeration- All containers should have a drainage hole in the bottom.

5. Soil temperature-This is where your propagation mat comes in. Check your soil temperature with a themometer to see if a another heat source is needed for germinating your seedlings. Optimum temperature is 65 F to 75 F. Gro-mat

6. Light- Check your seed packet for requirements. We offer a handy light intensity meter.

7. Depth- General rule is plant seeds at a depth 2 to 3 times their width.

8. Nutrients- Little if none until plant have around 6 to 8 leaves. (And even then go easy).

All of this valuable information and more on seed germination is found in the Greenhouse Gardener's Companion by Shane Smith sold on our site.