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Seed Starting 101: What You Can Start Indoors Right Now
Jan
Winter may feel like a quiet time in the garden, but it’s actually the perfect season to get a head start on spring. Starting seeds indoors now allows gardeners to extend the growing season, enjoy healthier plants, and ease into spring planting with confidence. With the right setup, seed starting can be simple, rewarding, and surprisingly fun.
At Bru-Mar Gardens, winter is an ideal time to plan ahead and begin growing indoors.
Why Start Seeds Indoors in Winter
Starting seeds indoors gives plants extra time to develop strong roots before they’re moved outside. It also allows gardeners to grow a wider variety of plants, including those that need a longer growing season. Seed starting is a great way to stay connected to gardening during winter while preparing for a successful spring.
What You Can Start Indoors Right Now
These plants are well suited for indoor seed starting during winter in Maryland:
Herbs
Basil, parsley, cilantro, chives, thyme, and oregano grow well indoors and can be harvested even before moving outdoors.
Cool-Season Vegetables
Lettuce, spinach, kale, broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower can be started indoors now and transplanted early in spring.
Flowers
Pansies, violas, snapdragons, petunias, and alyssum benefit from early indoor starts and reward gardeners with earlier blooms.
Slow-Growing Plants
Perennials and certain vegetables that take longer to mature appreciate the head start winter seed starting provides.
The Basics: Supplies You’ll Need
Successful seed starting begins with the right tools. Seed-starting kits simplify the process and often include trays, humidity domes, and starter cells. Lightweight seed-starting mix is important, as it drains well and supports delicate roots. Containers should always have drainage holes to prevent soggy soil.
Grow lights are especially helpful in winter, when natural daylight is limited. They provide consistent light and help prevent seedlings from becoming tall and weak.
Light, Warmth, and Care
Most seeds germinate best in warm conditions, while young 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 moist but not wet.
Winter seed starting is also a great time to learn how plants respond to light, water, and temperature, building skills that carry into the growing season.
Seed Starting FAQs
Do I need grow lights to start seeds indoors?
While a sunny window can work for some plants, grow lights provide more reliable results during winter.
When should I start seeds indoors?
Timing depends on the plant. Many seeds are started 6–10 weeks before the last expected frost date.
Why are my seedlings tall and floppy?
This usually means they need more light or the light source is too far away.
Can I use regular potting soil?
Seed-starting mix is recommended because it’s lighter and drains better, helping young roots grow properly.
Do seedlings need fertilizer?
Most seedlings don’t need fertilizer until they develop their first true leaves.
Get a Head Start on Spring
Starting seeds indoors is a rewarding way to stay connected to gardening all winter while setting the stage for a productive spring. With the right seeds, supplies, and guidance, winter seed starting can be both simple and successful.
Located at 1009 Bay Ridge Road in Annapolis, Maryland, Bru-Mar Gardens proudly serves local gardeners with quality seeds, seed-starting supplies, and expert advice. We are open Monday through Saturday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM and Sunday from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM, and our team is always happy to help you get started.