There is nothing more hopeful and cheering than an emerging seedling. A new life, full of potential to grow into that edible plant or beautiful flower, so coveted in the coming months. Seedlings require a good start to be healthy and to reach their potential however, and there are a few things to pay special attention to.


First, it is a good idea to look ahead and choose which varieties you want to grow.
Be mindful to the information on the seed package as to what conditions the particular variety will grow in and to what height. Choose varieties known to grow well in your region. Also, consider the conditions of your garden, even if that means your balcony container garden that is in the shade. You can still have a productive garden when your conditions are less than ideal.


Next, plan how you are going to start your seeds and whether you are going to need extra supplies. Also, consider how you plan to move your plants on, as they get bigger. There is nothing more disheartening to me, than starting seeds in an inadequate environment and then watching their potential diminish as the days go by. In the winter and early spring, seeds will germinate if they are started in a warm moist environment. Seedlings grow much more slowly at this time of year so be patient and remember to continue to start seeds every few weeks for successive growth and to replace any crops that don’t do well.

I find that my healthiest seedlings are those started in a balanced organic seed starting mix on bottom heat or heat mats.

Seeds started on bottom heat germinate more quickly and have a higher percentage of germination. Heat mats are typically used in otherwise cold greenhouses, which means that the only warmth being applied is beneath the soil mass. The resulting seedlings are stout and strong and do not become leggy and weak because they are slowed in height by the cooler weather as they emerge from the soil.


In our SunPod Signature mini greenhouse/cold frame, seedlings are particularly happy because the environment is more controlled by being smaller. It is energy efficient and a great way to get started growing your own seedlings. It is also possible to attach T5 grow lights to the wood purlins to offset inadequate light levels for this time of year. Later in the year when your seedlings have grown up, use the cold frame to cover your summer vegetables and herbs. Protect crops from insects, animals and windy, rainy weather.

I also have excellent results starting seeds in my SunPod Walk-In full size hobby greenhouse. I use larger heat mats, holding 4 flats and cover the seed flats with clear domes until germination to help keep moisture and warmth in.


Feed seedlings regularly with a dilute seaweed mix. Keep them moist but not overly wet as this can encourage damping off.
If damping off does occur, simply remove the infected seedlings by pinching them off and attempt to somewhat dry out the environment. Drying out can be accomplished by leaving the cover open or off for a short while on fair, calm days. Water the infected seed tray regularly with seaweed to help provide immune strength and most of the seedlings are likely to be just fine.

photos and content by Rachel Lloyd.