Seed Starting 101: What You Can Start Indoors Right Now

Winter may slow things down outside, but it’s the perfect season to get growing indoors. Starting seeds now keeps gardeners engaged, builds confidence, and gives plants a strong head start before spring arrives. With the right seeds and a simple setup, indoor seed starting is easy, productive, and surprisingly satisfying.

At Copia Home & Garden, winter is all about thoughtful planning and setting the stage for a successful growing season ahead.

Why Start Seeds Indoors in Winter

In the Northeast, our growing season can feel short. Starting seeds indoors allows plants to develop healthy roots before they’re moved outdoors, leading to stronger growth and earlier harvests or blooms. It also opens the door to a wider selection of vegetables, herbs, and flowers that benefit from extra time to mature.

What You Can Start Indoors Right Now

Vegetables
Tomatoes, peppers, eggplant, broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, and onions all benefit from an early indoor start.

Herbs
Basil, parsley, cilantro, chives, oregano, and thyme grow well indoors and can be harvested lightly before transplanting.

Flowers
Pansies, violas, snapdragons, petunias, and alyssum appreciate extra growing time and often bloom earlier when planted outside.

Slow-Growing Plants
Certain perennials and specialty plants need a longer growing period and perform best when started indoors during winter.

Seed-Starting Kits and Grow Lights

Seed-starting kits simplify the process and help keep everything organized. These kits typically include trays, cells, and humidity domes that help maintain consistent moisture during germination. A lightweight seed-starting mix is essential, as it drains well and supports healthy root development.

Grow lights are especially helpful during winter when natural daylight is limited. They provide consistent light and prevent seedlings from becoming tall, thin, or weak.

Light, Warmth, and Watering Basics

Most seeds germinate best in warm conditions, while seedlings need bright light once they emerge. Grow lights should be positioned just a few inches above seedlings and run for about 14 to 16 hours per day.

Water gently to keep soil evenly moist, but never soggy. As seedlings grow, gradually raise lights to maintain proper distance and encourage sturdy growth.

Seed Starting FAQs

Do I need grow lights to start seeds indoors?
Grow lights aren’t required, but they provide the most reliable results during winter when sunlight is limited.

When should I start seeds indoors?
Most seeds are started 6 to 10 weeks before the average last frost date, depending on the plant.

Why are my seedlings tall and floppy?
This usually means they’re not getting enough light or the light source is too far away.

Can I use regular potting soil for seed starting?
Seed-starting mix is recommended because it’s lighter and drains better than standard potting soil.

Do seedlings need fertilizer right away?
Seedlings typically don’t need fertilizer until they develop their first set of true leaves.

Start Growing Now for a Stronger Spring

Seed starting indoors is one of the best ways to stay connected to gardening during winter while preparing for a productive spring. With a little planning and the right supplies, you’ll be ready to transplant strong, healthy plants when outdoor conditions improve.

Visit Copia Home & Garden at 475 Smith Ridge Road South, Salem, NY, or call (914) 533-7242.

Winter Hours:
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday–Saturday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Our knowledgeable team is always happy to help you choose seeds, seed-starting kits, and grow lights to get growing right now 🌱