The Joy of Seed Starting

Starting seeds at home is one of the most rewarding ways to kick off the growing season. At Laurel Gardens, we love helping gardeners grow vegetables and flowers from seed, bringing more variety, better timing, and a deeper connection to the garden.

Vegetable seeds like tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, squash, and herbs thrive when started at the right time and transplanted once the soil warms. Flower seeds, such as zinnias, cosmos, sunflowers, snapdragons, and marigolds add color, pollinator support, and beauty throughout the season.

Starting seeds gives gardeners more control over plant selection and growth, and it’s a great way to get a head start on the season while winter is still lingering outside. If you’re anything like us, we can’t help but flip through seed catalogs and dream of the spring sunshine and fresh tomatoes!

Tips for Seed-Starting Success

• Start with clean containers and a high-quality seed-starting mix or fine potting soil.

• Check planting dates for Kentucky—some seeds prefer an early indoor start, while others do best direct-sown outdoors.

• Provide strong light to prevent leggy seedlings; a sunny window or grow light works best.

• Keep soil evenly moist, not soggy.

• Harden off seedlings by gradually introducing them to outdoor conditions before planting.

Stop by Laurel Gardens for seeds, supplies, and expert advice to help you grow a healthy, successful garden from the very beginning.