The conditions found in many homes may not be favorable for good plant growth. To successfully start seeds and grow transplants indoors, you must be careful to provide proper levels of light, temperature and humidity.

The two problems most commonly encountered are lack of light and damping-off. Windows alone usually do not provide adequate light. It is best to use fluorescent lights that are on for 12 to 16 hours per day and no more than 4 inches above the tops of the seedlings.

To prevent damping off, a fungal disease, purchase sterile planting soil to start seeds. You may use new plastic containers, peatpots, or used containers that have been cleaned and sterilized. Sterilize them before use with a solution of one part bleach and 9 parts water.

• Fill the containers with soil and level it to about 1/4 inch from the top.
• Determine the planting depth by the seed size. A good rule is to plant seeds at a depth of 3 times their diameter.
• Broadcast very small seeds such as broccoli or lettuce and cover with a light sifting of soil.
• Gntly water.

It is important to start seeds at the proper time. Refer to seed packets for starting dates and other specific needs. When seeds are started too early, plants will become tall and spindly and won't grow well after they are moved to the garden. [Tomato transplants started too early actually produce less tomatoes during the growing season.]

Transplanting to the Garden in Minnesota

• Cole crops like broccoli and cabbage can be started about March 15th and transplanted to the garden about May 10th.
• Start your pepper and eggplants about April 1st and transplant to the garden the first week of June.
• Tomatoes can be started about April 15th and can be transplanted to the garden about June 1st.
• Vinecrops can be started about May 1st and planted outside around June 1st.

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