Day 1 Starting Seeds Indoors

Why Do I Need To Start My Seeds Indoors

Florida's weather is a bit fickle one day its sweltering and the next its only a few degrees above freezing. Some go even as far to say Florida is bipolar. In Central Florida there are two seasons for tomatoes: mid-May to mid-July and the winter season of November through December. To have good tomatoes you want cool nights and warm days. So by starting your seeds indoors you ensure optimal growing conditions for your tomatoes and increase yield.

When Should I Start My Seeds

As spring approaches the clock starts ticking and the need arises to sow your seeds indoors. The best time to start your seeds here in Central Florida is in January and February. For the winter season its best to start them around early September or late August.

How To Start My Seeds Indoors

First you will need:

Peat Moss Pots or Trays

Potting Soil

Water

Seeds 

I prefer to  use Peat moss trays and then later

transplant them into newspaper cups I make 

myself. Another preference is I use Just Natural 

Potting Mix because its organic and only $3.18 

for forty liters from Lowes. Use a water gallon with holes in
the cap to water the trays. It's better to use water not containing
chlorine so if you're using tap water be sure to
let it sit for a day so the chlorine evaporates.

Fill peat trays with potting mix ( this mix is mulchy and
I recommend you screen it or remove large chunks )

Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep

Lightly water each cell and let soak

If the peat is still dry after several minutes add
more water

Extra notes: In 7-14 days your seeds will fully emerge.  Be sure to keep seeds above 68 degrees and moist while not over watering!