- Ideally, you should use new containers each season. If you prefer to use the same planting containers that you used last year, sterilize them by soaking them in a solution of 1 part household bleach to 10 parts water. Prepare enough solution to completely submerge the containers and allow them to soak for 30 minutes before rinsing thoroughly in clear tap water.
- Seeds do best when started in a soilless medium. This helps to avoid common fungus problems that can destroy seeds. Materials such as vermiculite, sand and perlite are considered soilless mediums. Fill the planting container to within 1/4 inch of the rim and moisten the medium until the water drains from the bottom.
- Check the back of the seed packet for the recommended time to plant the seeds. Generally, the packet will recommend starting the seed a certain number of weeks before the last frost date for your area. If you aren't sure of your last frost date, call the county cooperative extension office in your area and ask an agent. Use a calendar to count back the weeks from the last frost This will give you the date to start the seeds indoors and they should be ready to transplant when frost is over in your area.
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