Now is the perfect time to start seeds indoors on Long Island. Imagine the fun you’ll have and the money you could save by growing your own. Get the whole family involved and enjoy home-grown flowers, vegetables and herbs from Spring until Fall!
Hicks Nurseries carries thousands of varieties of seeds from the best seed companies including Hart, Lake Valley and Botanical Interests. We offer a large selection of certified organic, non-GMO seeds as well.
Easy Steps to Seed Starting at Home:
- Seeds. Choose what you would like to grow. Some easy-to-grow vegetables include beans, peas and peppers. Easy to grow flowers include marigolds, zinnias and alyssum.
- Containers. It’s best to start with small planters or cell packs.
- Soil. Choose an organic seed starting medium. Press the soil gently into each container.
- Water. Lightly moisten the soil prior to planting.
- Seeding. Add 2-3 seeds per cell. Press the seeds gently into the soil. Then cover with an additional sprinkling of soil.
- Label. Use plant tags to identify what you planted and the date.
- 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.
- Transplant. Once the seedlings outgrow their containers, transplant them into larger containers.
- 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.
Time spent planting, picking and cooking the herbs and vegetables you have grown is an exciting accomplishment and a great way to spend time with your friends and families.
Additional Information:
How to Start a Vegetable Garden
VIDEO: How to Start Seeds