Seed Starting 101: What You Can Start Indoors Right Now

Winter may slow things down outdoors, but it’s the perfect time to start growing indoors. Seed starting during the colder months keeps gardeners engaged, builds confidence, and gives plants a healthy head start before spring arrives. With the right seeds and a simple setup, indoor seed starting is both easy and rewarding.

At Sixteen Acres Garden Center, winter is all about planning ahead and setting the stage for a successful growing season.

Why Start Seeds Indoors in Winter

Starting seeds indoors allows plants to develop strong root systems before being exposed to outdoor conditions. In Massachusetts, where the growing season can feel short, this extra time makes a big difference once planting season begins.

Indoor seed starting also opens the door to a wider selection of vegetables, herbs, and flowers, including varieties that benefit from a longer growing period.

What You Can Start Indoors Right Now

Many plants are well suited for winter seed starting.

Vegetables
Tomatoes, peppers, eggplant, broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, and onions benefit from an early indoor start.

Herbs
Basil, parsley, cilantro, chives, thyme, and oregano grow well indoors and can even be harvested before moving outside.

Flowers
Pansies, violas, snapdragons, petunias, and alyssum appreciate extra growing time and often bloom earlier when planted outdoors.

Slow-Growing Plants
Some perennials and specialty plants need additional time to mature and perform best when started indoors.

Seed-Starting Kits and Grow Lights

Seed-starting kits make the process simple and organized. They typically include trays, cells, and humidity domes that help maintain consistent moisture during germination. A lightweight seed-starting mix is essential, as it drains well and supports healthy root development.

Grow lights are especially helpful during winter when natural daylight is limited. They provide consistent light and help prevent seedlings from becoming tall or weak.

Light, Warmth, and Watering Basics

Most seeds germinate best in warm conditions, while seedlings need bright light once they emerge. Grow lights should be placed just a few inches above seedlings and run for about 14–16 hours per day.

Water gently and keep soil evenly moist, but not soggy. As seedlings grow, raise lights gradually to maintain proper distance.

---

Seed Starting FAQs

Do I need grow lights to start seeds indoors?
Grow lights aren’t required, but they offer the most reliable results during winter when daylight is limited.

When should I start seeds indoors?
Most seeds are started 6–10 weeks before the average last frost date, depending on the plant.

Why are my seedlings tall and floppy?
This usually means they aren’t receiving enough light or the light source is too far away.

Can I use regular potting soil for seed starting?
Seed-starting mix is recommended because it’s lighter and drains better than standard potting soil.

Do seedlings need fertilizer right away?
Most seedlings don’t need fertilizer until they develop their first set of true leaves.

---

Start Growing Now for a Better Spring

Seed starting indoors is a simple way to stay connected to gardening all winter while preparing for a strong, healthy spring garden. With a little planning and the right supplies, you’ll be ready to transplant confident, well-established plants when outdoor conditions improve.

Visit Sixteen Acres Garden Center at 1359 Wilbraham Road in Springfield, MA, or call (413) 783-5883.
Winter Hours:
Monday–Saturday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Our knowledgeable team is always happy to help you choose seeds, seed-starting kits, and grow lights to get your garden growing right now 🌱