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When to Start Seeds Indoors (& How)

Are you wondering when to start seeds indoors? It’s important to get started in the right time so that your garden is off to a strong start. Staying on top of planting dates, for both indoor seeds and outdoor seeds, will help you have success throughout your whole gardening season.

The first thing that you need to find out is which seeds to start indoors and which to start outdoors. Then, you’ll want to make a timeline of when to start each type of seed and stick to it strictly. Our garden planner will help you map out these dates and have healthy plants popping up at the right time.

Remember: at any point you can decide to focus on starter plants rather than seeds, especially if you’re new to gardening. Find out which is better: seeds or starter plants. There are many merits to sowing seeds, and it can be a much more affordable way to start a garden. However, it can be challenging and requires dedication.

If you’re looking for more help on how to get started with gardening, look at our posts on the basics of companion planting, planning a garden, and our gardening tips for beginners.

seed packets on marble background

Which Seeds to Start Indoors

There are many seeds that you can start indoors, while others are to be sown directly in ground. It’s important to organize a timeline for both indoor and outdoor seeds. Most seed packets contain key information as to when and where you can start your seeds. Here are some key plants to start indoors:

  • zucchini
  • pumpkin
  • cucumber
  • acorn squash
  • summer squash
  • eggplant
  • cherry tomatoes
  • roma tomatoes
  • alyssum
  • basil
  • cauliflower
  • broccoli
  • brussels sprout
  • cabbage
  • beets
  • bell peppers
  • banana peppers
  • jalapeño
  • okra
  • celery
cayenne peppers and seed packet against marble background

Which Seeds to Start Outdoors

There are a number of seeds that can be started outdoors by being sown directly in ground. First, you’ll prepare your soil. Then, you’ll plant seeds according to package directions. Some of these crops can be planted and tolerate some frost, while others require waiting until the last average annual frost date has passed. For specific guidelines, check your seed packet instructions. Here are some plants that are sown outdoors by seed:

  • carrots
  • beets
  • sweet peas
  • spinach
  • lettuce
  • radish
  • arugula
  • marigolds
  • zinnias
  • endives
  • pinto beans
  • chickpeas
  • black beans
bell peppers and hand holding seed packet

A Guide for When to Start Seeds Indoors

Generally, seeds should be started indoors 4-8 weeks before they are planted outside, and they are to be planted outside according to your gardening zone. (Learn your gardening zone here!) You should check your specific seed packet for exact dates as to when to start your seeds, but these guidelines should help you get started.

10-12 Weeks

You’ll want to plant slow-growing crops in as far as three months before your last average annual frost date. Here are some important seeds to start indoors in this timeframe:

  • cabbage
  • brussels sprout
  • artichoke
  • leeks
  • celery
  • asparagus
8-10 Weeks

Start seeds indoors that require a lengthy germination period of eight to ten weeks. There are a number of plants that you can start in this time, such as:

  • eggplant
  • broccoli
  • cauliflower
  • yellow onions
  • red onions
  • jalapeño
  • bell peppers
  • banana peppers
6-8 Weeks

Once you’re about two months away from planting your garden, it’s definitely a good time to sow seeds indoors. A number of popular seeds do well being planted around this time. Here are some seeds to sow indoors at 6-8 weeks:

  • thyme
  • rosemary
  • lavender
  • roma tomatoes
  • cherry tomatoes
  • tomatillo
  • lettuce
  • kale
  • swiss chard
2-5 Weeks

Once you’re close to planting season, try a number of these quickly rooting plants. Sow the seeds and set in a sunny window for some healthy starter plants around growing season.

  • acorn squash
  • pumpkin
  • zucchini
  • summer squash
  • watermelon
  • cantaloupe
seed packets spread out over marble counter

Answers to Your Questions About When to Start Seeds Indoors

What month do you start seeds indoors?

Generally speaking, you’ll want to start seeds indoors four to six weeks before your last average annual frost date. For many people, this in the month of March.

Can you start seeds indoors too early?

Yes. If you start seeds indoors too early, they will grow tall and weak, and not have the space to develop a proper root system. Make sure to stick to the recommended planting date to start seeds indoors.

Is February too early to start seeds indoors?

Not at all! If you live in the south, February is when you would want to plant many of your seeds. Note your growing region and when your last average annual frost date is, and plan to be starting seeds the two months prior to this date.

Can I start seeds in January?

If you live in a hot region, like Zone 7, 8, or 9, you can start seeds as early as January. Plan your harvest accordingly, as once the temperatures heat up, some of your plants might struggle to survive the heat.

When to start flower seeds indoors?

Flower seeds should be started indoors in March for most people. Some flowers take longer than others, so it’s best to read your seed packet and find out how many weeks before the last average annual frost date the flower seed should be planted.

When to start seeds indoors zone 6?

Seeds should be started by March 1st for zone 6. The last average annual frost date is around April 15th, with some variation, but you should always keep an eye on the weather when deciding your planting dates.

When to start seeds indoors zone 7?

Seeds should be started as early as mid-February for zone 7, as the last average annual frost date is mid-March.

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