Seed Starting in the Spring

Spring comes late in Atlantic Canada, but starting seeds indoors helps you get a head start, save money, and have more control over your garden. Here’s a simple guide to starting vegetables, herbs, or flowers from seed this season.

Author: Kent Building Supplies

What You’ll Need:

Seeds (check the back of the packet for timing)
Seed starting mix (lighter than regular potting soil)
Seed trays, cell packs, or small containers with drainage
Labels or markers
A sunny window or grow light
Watering can or spray bottle
A humidity dome or plastic cover

Images featuring various gardening supplies, including tools, pots, seeds, and gloves, arranged artistically.

1. Know When to Start

First, find out when to start seeds. In Atlantic Canada, most gardeners start seeds 6 to 10 weeks before the last frost, usually in late May.
Check each seed packet for specific timing, since instructions can vary.
Popular seeds to start early include:
- Tomatoes
- Peppers
- Broccoli
- Kale
- Herbs like basil and parsley
- Annual flowers

Images of vegetables: broccoli, tomatoes, red and green peppers, arranged attractively on a wooden surface.

2. Start Planting

Plant one seed per pellet or cell, covering each seed with a thin layer of growing mix. Typically, seeds are planted to a depth that is twice their diameter - don’t bury them deeply.
Fill pots or cell packs with moist seed starting mix. If using peat pellets, hydrate them with lukewarm water until fully expanded. In a few minutes, the pellets are ready for planting.
Plant one seed per pellet or cell, covering each seed with a thin layer of growing mix. Typically, seeds are planted to a depth that is twice their diameter - don’t bury them deeply.
Label each tray or pot.

Images displaying various soil types alongside different seeds for agricultural comparison and study.

3. Provide Light and Water

Cover the tray with a plastic dome to hold humidity and promote good germination. Remove the dome when seedlings sprout. This technique ensures good air flow.
Place trays in a bright south-facing window or provide grow lights for 16 hours each day.
Keep lights 2-3 inches above seedlings to prevent stretching.
Check the soil every day or two. Water to keep the growing mix lightly moist avoid overwatering. If unsure, touch the soil with your finger to gauge moisture.

Images of various potted plants showcasing different species and growth stages.

4. Thin and Feed

When seedlings develop their first set of true leaves:
- Thin them out so the strongest plants remain
- Begin feeding with a diluted liquid plant food every 1-2 weeks
Help your plants grow sturdy and ready for outdoor conditions with these practices.

Images of healthy plants alongside a bottle of plant food, showcasing plant care and nourishment.

5. Harden Off Before Planting Outside

Begin 7–10 days before transplanting. Gradually introduce seedlings to outdoor conditions.
Increase outdoor exposure time daily.
Bring plants inside if it’s cold or windy.
Harden off your plants to help them adjust to cooler nights, wind, and sun.

Images of green plants in plastic containers, showcasing different varieties and arrangements.

6. Transplant

After frost risk and when the soil is warm, transplant seedlings to the garden.
Plant on a mild, cloudy day. Water well and monitor night temperatures during the first week.

Images of colorful flowers alongside a calendar displaying the current month and date.

Starting your own seeds is quick, easy, and very rewarding. A little planning now leads to healthier plants, earlier harvests and a more successful growing season overall. Drop in to your local KENT store and check out our selection of seed starting products and get planting!

Pro-Mix
Pro-Mix MycoActive Organic Seed Starting Mix 9L
$9.59 /BG
Ready to Deliver

0 at St. Stephen
McKenzie Seeds
McKenzie with Jiffy Greenhouse 72 cell
$19.99 /EA
Ready to Deliver

7 Available for pick up at
McKenzie Seeds
Grow Light
$59.99 /EA
Ready to Deliver

7 Available for pick up at
Terrafibre
Terrafibre Hemp Cube 1.5" 98 Cubes
$31.49 /EA
Ready to Deliver

16 Available for pick up at
McKenzie Seeds
Jiffy 3" Round Pots-15/Pack
$4.99 /EA
Ready to Deliver

2 Available for pick up at
McKenzie Seeds
Assorted Flower And Vegetable Seeds
$3.49 /EA
Ready to Deliver

286 Available for pick up at
DCN
1.75 L Stackable Watering Can

Starting at
$7.99 /EA
Planter's Pride
4" Green Grower Pot
$1.99 /EA
Ready to Deliver

4 Available for pick up at