How to Germinate Flower Seeds

Many flower seeds germinate quickly and easily when planted in garden soil under usual weather conditions. But there is no guarantee that the weather will cooperate when it comes time to start you flowers. Many gardeners prefer to start flowers inside so they can control the environment and increase the chances seeds will germinate. With a little effort, you can germinate the seeds inside and transplant your flowers to their permanent location once seedlings are ready for the outside conditions.

Things You'll Need

• Flower seeds
• Seed starter/mini greenhouse

Instructions

1. Purchase seed starter. Available in bags or in small seed starting trays, seed starter provides all the nutrients your young seedlings need to get off to a good start. Beginning gardeners often prefer to purchase mini greenhouses with pre-filled cells for individual plants. These are convenient and can be purchased for a few dollars.

2. Water the seed starter until it is evenly moist. It may take a few minutes for the water to settle, as starter that has been sitting is generally very dry. Portions may float to the surface, but will absorb the water creating a moist starter soil within a few minutes.

3. Plant the seeds to the appropriate depth by consulting the directions on the seed packet. One of the biggest mistakes made by new gardeners is planting the seed to deep. Plant the seeds a little less than the depth indicated to prevent the sprouts from dying before reaching the surface of the soil.

4. Cover with the included plastic cover and set in a warm location. Check the seeds daily for any signs of germination and prop the cover open a few inches as soon as seedlings emerge.

5. Monitor the container for excessive moisture and leave it open to dry slightly if the greenhouse gets too moist. Mist dry soil with a spray bottle. Germination time depends on the particular species you have chosen to grow. Consult the seed packet for expected germination time.