My Indoor Seed Starting Setup + What I'm Starting from Seed Today!

[@Herf18]

Thanks for the video and Good luck fellow ohioan! Hopefully the train crash chemicals don't hurt the growing, water, or many more animals.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Such a horrible situation- I feel so bad for the people in that area. I'm fortunate to be on the other side of the state.

[@jennifertriplett9537]

I'm from SE Ohio in the boot right along the river ♥️

[@nchestercountynews4955]

@@GrowfullywithJenna if it gets in the watershed, it will affect millions down stream

[@WhittWoofs]

Tragically, the toxic forever chemicals released by the local police from their decision to burn it up (and Norfolk Southern to label the cargo as non-hazardous) will hurt the growing, water, and many more animals (including humans) for generations.

[@jennifertriplett9537]

They are now testing and taking samples of the Ohio river 🤦 and keeping a close eye .... It made the news

[@MissChievousRN]

I bought a cheap roll of mylar off Amazon and wrapped my whole table/shelf in it with the opening in front. It's been 4 years and I still have at least half a roll of i need it. It keeps the light, heat, and humidity in and I can start all my seeds in an ice cold garage with cheap vevor heat mats, aluminum chafing dishs, red solo cups and clear cups over the tops. Bottom water.

[@juliemulie1805]

Still use fish emulsion indoors for seed starting. I just blame the cat litter box. It's only for a couple of months.

[@sivartsivart7955]

use mylar rescue3 blankets for reflecting the light, plus they are cheap.

[@johac7637]

My go to starter food has been Alfalfa pellets and make a tea, I set my trays in a bath tray, and the trays that I put my Solo cups have a drain hole up 3/4 " so not to drown them. I've used this for years, get several watering from a batch, when the tea is light colored I dump the left overs to the worm bin , or onto a raised bed. Cheap, not smelly, actually make me think of haying season..

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

I love using alfalfa hay & pellets in the garden (I also love the smell). I'd not though of making a tea with the pellets- thanks for sharing!

[@xuyahfish]

I soak all my seeds. Speeds up germination massively.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Great tip!

[@TalesFromTheRanch]

I’m down near Cincinnati, 6b. I’m starting my onions, and I’m getting ready to do brassicas and start some herbs. I don’t garden on your scale, but I’m learning more each year about timing of various plants. This will be my third year with a big to me garden. I love it.❤

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

This is wonderful, Holly- I'm so glad to hear you're loving your garden!!

[@katrinalucas9823]

Following your fertilizer trials. It's nice to see more gardeners from Ohio. Goodluck growing!

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Thanks, Katrina!

[@heathermacdonald6404]

I really appreciate the way you teach us newbies what's important. Thanks!

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

I'm happy to try & help!

[@Chris-cj5rh]

Thank you for this video Jenna! I know I could go back and watch your old “sow by month” videos, but there is just something about hearing it from you fresh this year!

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

You're welcome, Chris!

[@Aphidman1]

I'm going to try using water-change water from my aquarium for seedling irrigation. It works well for keeping houseplants green and happy, and I'm optimistic about seedlings too. I'm so glad you were not affected by the train crash! Very worrying for everyone near there.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Love that idea, Andy! I'm going to have to get an aquarium now 😄. I am very worried about everyone in that area as well- I also worry about the downstream effects.

[@stevetendrich398]

Andy, we do the same thing! I have not tried with seedlings as of yet, but I have 3 aquariums, and save a couple buckets, from water changes for watering house plants.

[@YoutubesFromWayback]

Carhartt Cutie 😉 I always use a fan(s) to simulate wind, it is a must, your plants for sure love you for it. Cool you always product test too, awesome!

[@YoutubesFromWayback]

Love Superthrive also, I've heard good things about Foxfarms soil/food, Earth Juice's Catalyst. I used before, it's a good company. You look like your Spring is busy!!!

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Thanks for the recommendations!

[@YoutubesFromWayback]

@@GrowfullywithJenna just keep doing what you do and making YT vids...you have a dirt buddy that enjoys learning more from ppl like you and enjoying seeing what plant lovers can do. (>'.')>🍓

[@bluebirdhomestead]

We are just getting our first seeds started this week here in zone 7a 😃😃😃- Cara

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Nice! Happy sowing!

[@bluebirdhomestead]

@@GrowfullywithJenna Thanks! :)

[@honeydew4576]

Thanks for the video, Jenna! I use a heat mat on my cool crops just because the indoor temp in our house is in the 30s. And we use an unfolded mylar survival blanket draped over the lights to reflect back. That has a nice clean look to it.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Brrrr... I thought my house was chilly! Totally makes sense what you're doing for your seedlings!

[@WhispersFromTheDark]

Same here, no central heat. But I do use electric heaters to keep me and the furrbabies warm, along with our electric blankets. Reflecting the heat (and light) is a great idea, I told my neighbor just a couple of days ago to keep an eye out for one of those silver bubble wrap things that are usually sold in the Summer for us to put on our dashes in the car to block the sun rays... I figured I could make a rectangle box out of one and Velcro the seams shut and put the light, a seedling tray or two and the heater under them and the reflective material would bounce the light rays off it onto the plants, in addition to holding in the warmth. It's right below freezing here tonight, but will get into the 70's and 80's for a couple of days next week, but something as delicate as seeds germinating, really need more of a stable temp until they get stronger so the heat mat, light and being enclosed within a silver envelope/box to keep in the heat and radiate the light is just the thing. I'm taking a seed starting Class online this week and I have all kinds of great ideas, just need to win the lottery so I can follow them to fruitation.

[@honeydew4576]

@@WhispersFromTheDark Great idea with the reflecting box! Curious. Is the seed starting class your taking with Rick from Our Stoney Acres?

[@juliekraft4102]

Always such useful information. It's a nice guide for the rest of us Ohio gardeners. Bonus🤗

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Glad you think so!

[@ronndapagan]

Thank you for this video. I am using the potting soil from Dollartree and added perlite and vermiculite with it and wet the mixture before planting the seeds into the milk jugs. Also Dollartree had this alternative coco coir potting / seed starting brick. Add water and it will fill three and a half milk jugs. I planted flower seeds with it. I also mixed perlite and vermiculite in with the brick soil before I planted the seeds.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Nice find! Sometimes I'm amazed at the stuff one can find at the Dollartree!

[@ronndapagan]

@@GrowfullywithJenna I am trying out new things to add in my gardening journey. I collected another eight milk jugs to work on some more herbs, cold hardy veggies and flowers to add to my winter sowing.

[@dustyflats3832]

Good that you added perlite to coir. I don’t think I added enough last year and it molded as it held too much water. I’m waiting to set my winter sowing out as it’s been way too warm here. I think tomorrow or the 20th. Just concerned they will germinate too soon or rot. Z5a.

[@ronndapagan]

@@dustyflats3832 this is my first time doing winter sowing. I am worried about the weather warming up as well but I am growing the cold hardy veggies in the milk jugs.

[@gardenernotdecoder8001]

Last year in the garden I had a barrel that I stuffed with comfrey and other garden cuttings and then let the rain wash through these cuttings. The barrel has drain holes on the bottom and I catch the drippings. I am sure this system has a name of permaculture something but I do not know it. What I did not use on the garden by last fall, I bottled up and I now use it on house plants and my seedlings. So far so good. Your posts are well done and very informative. Thank you!

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Great idea!

[@gmanamerican5015]

6A in PA- Fava's in ground 2-12-23 under row cover's and still harvesting turnips planted last fall. Thank you for sharing, I liked the video.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Nice! I've never tried growing fava beans-- I'll have to add that to the list!

[@grannytotherescue2023]

Hi Jenna, I just found your channel today and so far I love it! I have a recipe or mix for your Molasses 2.3.2 Mix! I make it homemade (Just as my Granny taught me) and have used it for years to fertilize my seedlings, because it is simple, works so well and it is a frugal and easy way to make it. You just mix it to water in a 1:10 ratio (1 cup of 2.3.2 to 10 cups of water) Here is my recipe: Molasses-Based Seeding Fertilizer (without fish emulsion). 2.3.2 Formula Ingredients: 1 gallon of water 1 cup of molasses 1 cup of blood meal (12-2-1) 1 cup of bone meal (3-15-0) 1 tablespoon of Epsom salt Instructions: Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients Gather all the ingredients needed for making the molasses-based seeding fertilizer. Mix the blood meal and bone meal in a separate bowl. Step 2: Dissolve Molasses in Water In a large bucket or container, pour one gallon of water and add one cup of molasses. Mix well until the molasses is completely dissolved in the water. (I usually just let it sit for a couple of hours after stirring it well) Step 3: Add Blood Meal and Bone Meal Mixture Add the blood meal and bone meal mixture to the molasses and water solution. Stir until everything is well mixed. Step 4: Add Epsom Salt Add one tablespoon of Epsom salt to the mixture and stir well. Step 5: Store the Fertilizer Store the molasses-based seeding fertilizer in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months. I make new each year or if I am not putting out a bunch of seedlings, I cut the recipe in half. Before using it, give the fertilizer a good stir or shake to make sure everything is evenly mixed. Step 6: Use the Fertilizer When you're ready to use the fertilizer, dilute it with water at a ratio of 1:10 (one part fertilizer to ten parts water). Apply the diluted fertilizer to your plants every two to three weeks during the growing season. I hope this helps you! Love, Granny2theRescue

[@grannytotherescue2023]

oh and if it is for outdoors or if you find that you don't have the blood or bone meal, in Step: 3, replace the bone and blood meal with 1 cup of fish emulsion (2-3-1) instead.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Thank you so much! I can’t wait to try this recipe!

[@carolschedler3832]

Oh my gosh! Thank you!

[@purplechris9480]

Hi SE Michigan here! Got to say love seeing your German shepherd. Lost our guy last year he was 11. Really miss him. You sure have a green thumb!!

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

I am so sorry for your loss. Dogs are just the best. ❤

[@etalc1404]

If swapping out T12 for LEDs, be sure to get bulbs that emit wavelengths of light that produce the natural daylight spectrum. You might want to hold onto the old bulbs until you go through one grow season to be sure the LEDs are sufficient.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Thanks for the tip!

[@debbiefoster9955]

Love to watch your videos...so informative. Unfortunately, I live in East Palestine, Ohio.... so I won't be able to garden for many years to come:( I will try to figure out how to possibly garden again some day. Until then, I will continue to watch your garden grow.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

I’m am so sorry to hear this, Debbie. Please stay safe 💚

[@WhittWoofs]

Thanks! Something to look forward to during this last stretch of Michigan winter.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

😄

[@reality....]

I love your seedling racks. Very cool! My zone twin! ;)

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Thanks!

[@katsgrocery7089]

THANK YOU FROM KENTUCKY! love your video's, very very helpful.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Thanks for watching!

[@MichaelJosephJr934]

Jenna I had some struggling greens under my lights and I tried Tomato Tone granules (I tbsp) soaked in a gallon water container overnight and shook it up vigorously. The next morning I added Seaweed fertilizer liquid, shook it hard again and watered. Everything popped nicely in a couple days. Just thought I'd share. Side note: I watered the soil not the leaves. And not all the granules dissolved but I will leave them in the gallon for next watering.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Thanks for sharing, Michael! This is good to know.

[@ndbg46881]

Hi Jenna, I know this is an older video and you probably already know this but last spring (2023) I bought LED shop lights for seed starting and boy what a difference in light coverage! Not optimum K but seedling grew fantastic.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Thanks for sharing!!

[@stevetendrich398]

We are also in 6A, sewed brassicas (minus cabbage) 2 weeks ago and up-potted. Cabbage last week. Luffa, onions and peppers we start in January. We use cheap LED grow lights over a table to start, when we up pot, they go under a Mars Hydro grow light. The rest will be done mid march.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Sounds great!

[@danielmansour7230]

I have a wire shelf with LEDs attached to it. I use cardboard boxes to elevated the trays towards the lights until the seedlings grow larger. I generally use coco peet or peet moss with perlite for the starting mix. I tend to do bottom watering so I can use a granular fertilizer but I use it at half the recommended strength to avoid over fertilizing and potential burning of the plants. This is only used once the plants have put out their first true leaves. Last week I got my brassicas, cilantro, some lettuces and spinach, along with some flowers for the wife's flower garden started. Some have already sprouted and I'm watching them closely to see if they get leggy because this is my first year with this system. It's my budget friendly way of having the cool seed starting system you have.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

That sounds like a great setup, Daniel! Smart idea using the boxes- easier than readjusting the handing LEDS every time you need to move them.

[@danielmansour7230]

@@GrowfullywithJenna there seems to be an impersonation account trying to steel people info by using your picture and requesting a whatsapp contact.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

@@danielmansour7230 thanks for alerting me! Definitely a scam!

[@venidamcdaniel1913]

So much advice. I can’t process all this. Have to watch iver n over but I can cause I have the video. Thanks.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Glad it was helpful!

[@rabidpotatoify]

I learned the hard way that my dog was also VERY interested in fish emulsion. Talk about bad breath! Thank you for the tips :)

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Oh no!! Blech!

[@michellepavlik3535]

I am also in Ohio! Where are you? I get conflicting zones here in Canfield, Oh! Really enjoying your videos!

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Hello fellow Ohioan! I'm in midwestern Ohio. For annual plants the zone matters less than your actual frost dates- mine is mid-May. If you need to check yours, you can simply type your zip code in here: www.almanac.com/gardening/frostdates

[@agrogers2]

I am following your planting since I’m in Ohio also😊

[@sandman3698]

OHIO

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Great to hear from a fellow Ohioan!

[@DevinTheGardener]

This was a fantasticly educating video and entertaining. Subscribed and when I grow up I want a channel just like yours! Keep up the great work!

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Thank you!!

[@catherineemerson99]

Another idea that we've adopted is using the inexpensive mylar emergency blankets. We have some tacked to the wall behind our light set-up, and you could drape more over the edge of yours. Thanks for the great video!

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

That's a great idea!

[@franksinatra1070]

Thanks Jenna. My one light rack looks very similar to what you showed in the video but mine is only two tier. I'm surprised you go 12 on 12 off. I've always done 14 or 15 on. Not sure where I heard to do that but have done it that way for 25 years. I saw in the comments you're not near the train wreck. Glad to hear that. Terrible situation.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

I'd say if that light schedule works well for you- stick to it! I've always used 12s and that works great for me. And yes- I'm on the other side of the state. It is definitely a terrible situation, and I worry about how far some of those chemicals will reach.

[@debsmith8102]

I have that “flora cart’ light stand. I upgraded when I purchased to the led lights . Right now they are out of stock because of Covid . They will restock soon

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Nice!

[@Pammmyanne]

Zone 6b here in Ohio and Im starting onions, kale, and some flowers that need the cold period to grow... bells of Ireland and poppys

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Nice!

[@TheDcmcleod]

I am in easter Ohio and in the same zone as you. I started onion seeds (first time for onion seeds, always did sets) last week and marigolds. I have used Miracle Grow Quick Start for seedlings and when I transplant into my garden.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

I hope your onions do great!!

[@mamabear7765]

Love your channel. Thank you so much for your insight! I am in NE Ohio, and this is the first year I am doing mass seed starting/planting indoors. I am starting brassicas, leafy greens, quinoa, nasturtiums, tomatoes, peppers, and bunching onions. However, I am going out on a limb and trying to grow bush beans and sugar snap peas in vertical planters in my huge south-facing window. So far, they are coming up beautifully! I am using neem powder in the starter soil to act as a mild fertilizer, but it also comes with the added benefit of controlling fungus gnats and so far, that's working quite well! Currently, I am absolutely in love with the small starter trays that come with a greenhouse dome and LED grow lights built in. I purchased 6 so far and I am definitely getting more. Everything I have planted in them has germinated much faster and they also keep my cats away from them 😆 Thanks again and happy planting!

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Thank you, Kelli! I'm happy to hear you're doing mass seed starting indoors this year- very exciting. And good to hear your experience with neem powder- I keep thinking of trying it, but haven't gotten around to it yet, I've only used neem oil outdoors. Thanks for sharing.

[@TLCInTheGarden]

Thanks for the video. Will be following your fertilizer trials with great interest here in NE Ohio. I use a mylar emergency blanket to reflect the light on my grow shelves.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Smart idea using the mylar!

[@Mary.Mercedes]

Those ready-to-use light system setups can be too expensive for most. A much cheaper alternative is to buy a stainless or powder-coated shelf system and hang standard high lumen shop lights under each shelf. Everyone has those shelves now. Four-foot double or single LED shop lights can be hung with adjustable chains and last for years. Most of your viewers should know that expensive full-spectrum plant lights are NOT necessary for robust seedling growth. You only need to invest in those for growing fruits and blossoming plants like micro tomatoes in the winter under lights. LOVE your channel.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Very true- which is why mine is 2nd hand. I show some light alternatives in this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gKDWYZeBmryNhck and some options for starting seeds without lights here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fZqVgaqIa5Wpodk But in this video I just wanted to share what is working best for me.

[@boonmsgt]

@@GrowfullywithJenna hope current events in Ohio is not effecting you. Are you safe distance away?

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

@@boonmsgt I’m on the opposite side of the state

[@boonmsgt]

@@GrowfullywithJenna glad to hear. Many gardeners will be negatively effected by that contamination. It is sad how the people of Palestine, Ohio and the American people are being treated by this Administration.

[@brichter4669]

I have a small backyard with no option to do an in-ground garden, so I use grow bags on my large outdoor patio. I also have 2 GreenStalk vertical planters that work well for a limited growing area. I live in zone 8b where the heat is a challenge to gardening. This is my 1st year to grow indoor seedlings. Using a metal wire shelving unit with adjustable shelves. My grow lights are Walmart LED shop lights with 5000 Lumens and daylight kelvin. The light has 2 LED strips and am using 2 shop lights per shelf. So far, my seedlings are growing well under the lights. I did a lot of garden research for my area and developed a planting guide for better timing with seed starting. Like you, I didn't want to use any fertilizer indoor with fish product, because it stinks so bad. I am using Fox Farm Grow Big 6-4-4 and VermisTerra earthworm casting tea at seedling strength. I don't have a huge seedling production, so it's not a big expense to use Fox Farm. Most of the liquid fertilizers were about the same price. BTW, I love your large orange scoop. I bought that same scoop last year and recently used it to redo potting mix in 1 of my vertical planters. It was a huge time saver. Like your channel and subscribed. Looking forward to watching your gardening tips and tricks.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Sounds like you have an ideal setup given your backyard situation- I love that! Great idea to use earthworm casting tea-- I use the casting themselves extensively but have yet to try the tea. I love that scoop too! Best wishes for a great gardening season this year!

[@jamep1]

The CD trays are great. A bit of an investment upfront, but they are worth it IMO. For plants that are going to be inside for a bit longer, I use the smaller cell trays, and then pot up into 2.5" pots in lieu of using the larger cell CD40 (mostly because I don't own any!)

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Great tip, Jim!

[@3musketeershomestead62]

I really enjoy your videos. I’m in southern Michigan.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Thank you!

[@drewweng]

I love how you're constantly testing things. I would love to know more about how you got into testing seeds and what's involved. Thanks for another great video!

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

It's fun for me to see first hand the results of these tests, so I'm happy to share! I'm hoping to do a video soon on the seed testing, as I've had lot of questions!

[@phenixwars1]

Excellent video, well paced and broke down the info in easy to understand sections.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Great to hear! Thanks!

[@larryngriffith1820]

Hi Jenna! Just found you. I'm up on the west side of Cleveland and enjoyed your video very much. It's nice to find a channel based here in Ohio. I appreciated learning about the equipment you use. I'm trying to decide which grow light I'd like to invest in as well as to upgrade my trays a bit. I have a small garden and have started seeds before but without the benefit of the grow light. After planting, they take a little time to catch up, so I thought it was time to try to address their early growing needs a bit more. Thank you for your advice, and I look forward to gardening with you!

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Hi Larryn- great to hear from a fellow Ohio gardener! I hope this season is a great one for you!

[@toolsforthesoul217]

Best video on this topic I've ever seen. Thank you. I am using t5 veg bulbs. Very powerful. I like the results.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Thank you! I have some small grow light stands with T-5s and I've always been happy with them!

[@grounded_maritimers]

Awesome video!!! I would love you to do a video on your set-up. You showed so many different areas in this video.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Thanks for the idea!

[@kristab1638]

I use aluminum foil around some of my seedling trays but I've found the aluminum foil pans we get from restaurant orders work well too and they're free, I just prop them up leaning on edge of my seedlings flats.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

That's a great idea!

[@kurtreed9841]

Hello! I just discovered and subscribed to your channel! I’m also an Ohio gardener, located in Zone 6A, Belmont county. I’m very much looking forward to the 2023 garden season, and also watching many more of your videos. Your content looks to be very helpful and educational. Good luck with your 2023 garden!

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Awesome! Thank you! It's always great to hear from a fellow Ohio gardener!

[@barbarazuazua3927]

Thanks for so much information! I subscribed to see how your tests work out because there really are a whole lot of products out there. It's overwhelming. I really want to handle my food as close to nature's way of doing things but I'm still new and learning so much. Looking forward to more!

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Thanks for watching, Barbara! I agree- the choices can definitely be overwhelming. I'm hoping I can find something that works well at a decent price point!

[@burntorangehorn]

I'm a big fan of Pro-Mix as well, although I usually try to find their seed-starting mix and use it as-is. This year I wanted to try a new seedling method, and was torn between soil blocking and air-pruning (Winstrip) cell trays, and went with a Lanbrooke soil blocking kit. Looking forward to following along with your growing season!

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

I've yet to try the soil blocking, but definitely want to do so. I'd love to hear what you think!

[@burntorangehorn]

@@GrowfullywithJenna I'll definitely let you know how it goes. I'll be trying it out on a few varieties you named as your 2022 favorites from Gurney's.

[@kristian.sacco.]

So much really great info in this one video. Thank you😊

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Thank you, Kristian!

[@matthewkurt2246]

I've had success using Neptune's Harvest fish and seaweed fertilizer. It is 2-3-1, liquid, and has very little odor.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Good to know! It's been a while since I used Neptune's Harvest and I think I just used the fish emulsion. I'll have to check this formulation out.

[@riverrootsfarm]

Your seed starting shelf is amazing! At home I use an industrial metal wire shelf with my lights on little pulleys to make them adjustable height (T5 bulbs bc I bought them years ago and they're still going). I work at a wholesale plant nursery though.. so it's possible I could splurge and order a really cool shelf like that through work...hmmmm ;) I love that you do your own tests and experiments for different fertilizers and such, I like to do the same. I'll have to check out those Charles Dowding trays. I basically make my own like that by cutting the professional quality plug trays I get from work into home gardener sizes. I agree about not having flats with mixed veggies, they always grow at different rates and bother each other. Love your videos!!

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Smart to put your lights on pulleys! I have a similar industrial shelf/light setup that I'm using for my indoor tomatoes & cucumbers right now and I'm not happy with the way the lights are attached... I've have to rig up a pulley system.

[@dustyflats3832]

When I saw the shelf I thought of a clothes rack on wheels! It looks relatively easy to make. That coir was the same that was disasterous for me last year. It molded real bad. I’m just using basic Pro Mix this year and that can also start molding, but I turn a fan on it and water sparingly and we seem to be getting along. Oh yes, those flimsy trays-not happening anymore. There are many tuff made cell packs offered now and 2” pots that I’m using to avoid up-potting. Fertilizer, I was currently looking for one and yes, did not want fish for indoors. I just used some granular Trifecta for the lettuce indoors, not sure what I will use for others. Started Nonstop Begonias yesterday! It is one of my favorite and I don’t buy often because they are expensive-so I’m hopeful they will grow and Excited! I only have one heat mat and tested to start geraniums also and they can share a mat😊. The petunias are up! All these tiny seeds😂😂I need a magnifying glass😅. I’ve grown those before once, but not the others. I’m fearing the artichoke will be monstrous and those are new to me also. I’ve been reading about the extremely warm weather and it will be breaking even some 100 year records-it’s not good! Spring is springing 3 weeks ahead and that messes with animals and insects. Plant plenty of flowers as the ones the pollinators depend on may not be available for them. This also includes trees and shrubs-basically everything. I’m so hoping this is a bad trend that will straighten out, but I don’t know. I think of how long it takes for evolution to happen like the birds beaks adapted on Galapagos Island because the flowers changed.😮 I’ve held off winter sowing in containers because I have never in my life experienced an extremely warm January and February. Temps of 50*F and rain is Not normal. So I’m sitting with over 35 jugs labeled and seed packs in each waiting for soil in my living room. It seems the room that never gets gardening supplies cleared away as it’s closest to the door😂. Not to mention a storage room and office😂😂. I think the temps will even out by the 20th here, but thought maybe tomorrow so I can assemble outside while still warm with 2 days snow and cold following and 2 days warm with cooler weather after. Just don’t want them to germinate too soon as I’ve read others have had. I don’t have enough room inside for all those jugs😂. It’s too soon to heat small greenhouse as it hopefully will get in the teens at night again. Yes the warm weather can be a plus in many ways, but it makes me nervous. And I have more WS’ing for late March for brassicas and annuals. All this and my sweetheart thinks we should replace polycarbonate panels on GH now🙄 A lot of great content in video today and had to comment before finishing video😅Happy Gardening! Just finished video and I think I will try Espoma or Dr. Earth as both are available locally. I see you have a small GH also with polycarbonate panels. We love our lean to we fabricated and I’m sooo tempted to heat it earlier to get all this stuff out of the house! As I said earlier we want to rework the GH and not sure if I could get it done in time as I’m installing heat sink and not sure if ground is frozen-it may have to wait as my shelves are full and those new to me artichokes look like from ‘Little Shop of Horrors’😂😂😂😂. Will check out Charles Dowding trays, I like those larger cells and smaller trays. And Yes, don’t mix the plants on a solid cell tray they do get crowded.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

I think it would be relatively easy to replicate a similar, DIY rack. And that's what I personally would opt for if I hadn't managed to snag this one second hand! Do you recall which brand of coconut coir you used last year? I winter sowed some herbs in January- chamomile is the only one up so far, even with the ridiculously warm weather-- I was really nervous about that too. We're all over the place for at least the next two weeks- it's snowing & 25F today, but my forecast says 71 (!!!!) by next Thursday. I hope you're able to move some of that stuff outdoors soon!

[@dustyflats3832]

@@GrowfullywithJenna bought it from Amazon organic coco coir by coco bliss-Plantonix, 10lb. Sorry I’m so chatty, but I do have a couple questions. Do you have advice/experience with growing Non Stop Begonias from seed? They are so tiny and slow growing-wonder if it’s normal. And first time ever I have aphids on herbs and those artichokes. I used premixed Neem oil lightly and seems to help with mildew and aphids and hand removal. They like lemon basil, marjoram and cumin, but not oregano, thyme or rosemary. Any suggestions? I need to either try coir again or something and make my own seed starting mix as I don’t like results from premixed. Thank you for all your help Jenna, much appreciated. I just realized this is the same coir you have. I did not rinse it. I seen Luke at MI Gardener rinsed as well and this could have been the problem. After reading article of ‘Is Peat Sustainable’ on Growertalks.com I think I will stay with peat. Very interesting article and Premier is very careful about harvesting and reclaiming the area afterwards so it can renew.

[@angelaslatzer9263]

I’m across the country in Idaho but we are zone 6B. I love your videos and tips for the garden. We have sown our broccoli, leeks, onions, celery, mustard, chard, dandelions, hot peppers, mizuna, cilantro with more herbs getting sown next week!

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

So much seed starting goodness going on over there! Nice!

[@johnjude2685]

Rechecked what you video taught last season Mixing your number 4 seed mixture again and loved last season results so repeat it. Cabbage lettuce kale sage rosemary broccoli and few more doing it now in my sunroom. . I'm so happy you gave me a heads-up several weeks ago as I'm 6a also. . Seen Charles Dowling a year or so they do look. . I'm again trying to keep up with your garden or pass it.. Thanks for helping me garden Lady

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Your garden is going to be great this year, John- I know it!

[@scattershomestead]

I love your indoor setup. Your full of great knowledge!

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@Steve-qo4hi]

I started a bit early this year here in CT but am ramping it up this weekend. Great video and nicely done.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Have fun!

[@johac7637]

Just a heads up, if you go to "type B" Led tubes, you can throw the ballasts away, they take direct 110 V current, as compared to the plug and play LED tubes, the type B use less power as well, and ballast do wear out, I just bought a 20 pack at Lowes for $6.50 each. I also switched out all my 4' T12 T8 tubes to type B remove the ballasts. I use the 6500K as they are as close to daylight as we need.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Thanks for the info!!

[@bublhed]

I actually bought a rack and lights this year instead of trying to prop everything up on the windows. So far everything has been coming along well! Even though it’s smelly I like to use Alaska fish emulsion, (5-1-1). Somehow my very curious pup doesn’t seem to be interested in it. I have to be careful with the blood meal because he can’t stay away from that - but I only use it in the garden, not indoors.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

I'm glad everything is coming along well AND that your pup is staying away (mine love the blood meal too)!

[@denisekelley2292]

I'm in NW Oregon (zone 8) in a small town which makes finding fertilizer, especially quality fertilizer difficult. I found Tru Organic liquid replant starter (222) at Ace. I'm trying it out this year, so far so good. I have been fertilizing only once a week, I'm going to try every watering and see if that makes a difference. I have used Espoma products in the past and like them, just hard to find here. Thank you for your real gardening info. We are in different climates; your info is easy to understand and adjust. We do have the same last frost date, that helps.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

That TruOrganic looks promising- I've not run across that brand before!

[@markmiller8641]

LOVE this kind of video with all the useful info 👌 Thank you so much and 🙏 for a plentiful growing season to all! So worried about all the efforts to destroy farmers in this country. Duck and cover people 🙏🙏🙏

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Thanks, Mark. I just hope people lean towards more self sufficiency (or small community sufficiency) in the years to come.

[@jamespalmerministries6131]

Awesome video! My onions are inches tall, Leeks just popping through. Time for cabbage n bok choy. I'm also searching for fertilizer so hopefully we find a good one.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Sounds great!

[@staciehenn5255]

So excited as I just ordered mine!

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Hooray!!

[@icculus7989]

I have a great tip! If you can make or find a good Bio-complete compost, you can skip the myco's in your seedling mix. They are expensive and only have a selection of certain microbs. Compost, especially made by you, has so many more species of mycrobs...thank you for all the info, you truly rock my friend!

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

That is a great tip! Thank you!

[@carolschedler3832]

Thank you for this tip! My seed starting mis is two parts homemade sifted compost, 1 part vermiculite and 1 part peat moss. It works really well for me and I always wondered if I should be adding any fertilizer.

[@beybslifeintheus494]

beautiful flowers

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Thanks

[@danielbrown3342]

Thank you I’m planning on adding worm castings and Mycorrhiza to my seed mix this year. I also have used promix in the past but it has gotten costly. I just received a new test bag from Growers soil that I’m really excited to try.

[@misscandicern]

Thanks for this video. Im following your seed starting schedule. Lol. I've started my cool weather stuff also. I use the metal storage racks from lowes & 2 LED 4ft lights per level got lights from sams club, they also connect to one another. My seed mix this year is coco coir, perlite, vermiculite & worm castings. I didn't use as much castings as you did & now i wish I had. Lol. I use the burpee coco coir & it's ready to use, just add water. I really like it. No buffering needed. So exciting together started.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Sounds like you are off to an awesome start this year, Candice!

[@TheHomesteadTrail]

I really like that pro-mix too, it’s good stuff. Thanks for the info! Going to cover my pansies this year, I’ve never had great germination rates with them

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

I find a black garbage bag laid over the top works well also!

[@anneharrington7951]

I'm Ohio also. I make my own potting soil using potting soil, vermiculite and worm castings. So far i have onions, parsley, eggplant, rutabaga, kohlrabi, an some flowers inside. Plus a bunch of winter sowed stuff, chamomile, wallflower, catmint, batchelor, allysum etc. I just bought a gallon of some type of fertilizer concentrate, and it is really stinky and black. So I think it must be good. I will be watching your videos.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

There does seem to be a correlation between the stink and how good a natural fertilizer is 😆! Sounds like you've got a great assortment already going- nice!!

[@shadbrown1348]

Jenna you might look into biochar to add to your mix.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

That would make a great addition! Thanks!

[@shadbrown1348]

Thank you but I don't know whatapp is so you will have take me off your list. I do appreciate the the thought.

[@debrascott8775]

Seed starting this year for the first time. Starting small with just 2 trays and 1 LED light plus a small batch of winter sowing. Your videos are extremely helpful, especially the fertilizer recommendationa. If all goes well, I'll be using your other advice when I scale up next year.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

I'm so glad you're trying seed starting for the first time this year- best wishes!

[@mompuff]

You are amazing!! I have learned so much from you!! This is my first time growing a garden in raised beds!! I’m going to try also for first time using cattle panels like you show us in one video!! I live in KY so our growing zone is 6b. I guess I can start my seedling when you do? Thank you for your wonderful advice!! 🙌🏻🦋🤗

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Thank you! And enjoy those raised beds this year. When you start will depend predominately on your last frost date- mine is approx. May 10th (but I use May 15th as my true frost free date).

[@mompuff]

@@GrowfullywithJenna Thank you so much!! I’m so grateful I found your channel!! I have been binge watching since I found you!! God Bless you & may this year’s garden be your best one ever!! 🙌🏻🤗🦋

[@Minnehaha64]

This will be my second time trying to start seeds indoors. First time was many years ago, and didn't go well. I've already got onions and celery in a sunny window. Coming up nicely. I have asparagus planted also, but it is slow! I plan to start greens, herbs, brassicas, and tomatoes during the next couple of weeks. I'm hoping to hold a plant/seed swap here in my neighborhood and church community. We live an hour south of you all! Thank you for all your info!

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

I hope it goes great this year, Sheri!

[@Minnehaha64]

@@GrowfullywithJenna thank you!

[@PharMamaUSA]

Thanks for the tips. This will be my 4th year doing seedlings. I like using Botanicare pure blend tea compost solution for my seedling. I use it weekly. Maybe I should change it up but has worked well past few years. Thanks for spending the time and sharing this video with us. From 6b Boston area, MA

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

I'll have to look into that- thank you!

[@marchenry8]

I have tested Rev, and it works very good 5 stars from me.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Good to know!

[@willsolarski8550]

Charles Dowding trays are great! I have 5 of the 60 modules and they are fantastic.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

I'm glad to hear you like them!

[@justsomeguy6133]

Nice setup and info. I like your homemade seedling mix, and I’m also a Promix fan, but it’s pricey around here. I have a T5 light which is intense. I can put my seedlings 12-18” away and they do just fine. In fact, it’s so powerful that even though it’s fluorescent, it actually heats up the grow area a bit, increasing the temperature around 10°, which is actually OK, because it’s in my otherwise chilly basement.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Sounds like a good light!

[@danlee4706]

I laughed when you mentioned how your German Shepherd treated your fish emulsion feed seedlings. I have cats...imagine that! After all the years of testing the various seed starting methods I've come to this decision. Start all seeds between moistened paper towels. Rinse them every day to keep moist and wash away fungus. When sprouted transfer them to pots filled with rich garden soil (which holds enough nutrition for seedlings) . This method is especially good for starting slow sprouting perennial seeds. This year I'm actually gonna try parsnips after many years of disappointment.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Oh goodness! I would think cats would go nuts for the stuff! I found pre-germinating parsnips is definitely the way to go. I only pre-germ certain seeds, but definitely worth the extra step for parsnips!

[@reallmccoy9043]

Ohio earth food has an amazing seed starter mix.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Good to know! I wish I was closer to them!

[@UverSerendipity]

Great video! Really interested in a follow-up video about your thoughts on the fertilizers you tested. Cheers!

[@justsomeguy6133]

I’m in zone 7a Maryland, but our last frost dates are only a couple weeks ahead of you, so I have only cool season crops going so far.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

It’ll be full on garden season before you know it!

[@CharMac76]

I like the pro mix as well. For seed starting I use the coir, worm castings and vermiculite. I do not rinse with anything, and have had no issues the past two years. 🤷🏾‍♀️ Thanks for the information though! I love your adjustable shelves.😊 I’m in Washington state but still zone 8b, so I started seeds mid January. Most of the same ones you have with a few additions and some flowers.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Good to know! Which brand of coir did you use?

[@CharMac76]

@@GrowfullywithJenna I used Burpee organic coconut coir. It did not mention rinsing on the package, so I didn’t. Not sure if it change the results or not.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

@@CharMac76 Thank you!

[@annanitschke6727]

I often just use compost tea bags for my seedlings and switch to the stinky fish emulsion fertilizer when plants are in the greenhouse..Only once has a bear found my container so I try to bring it inside.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

That's a great idea! And wow! I thought dealing with groundhog and racoons was a challenge!

[@rg-mi5hh]

For this year's garden, we mixed finished compost, potting soil, and any soil leftover from containers last year which had potting mix and vermiculite(sp?) in it. It is loose, and we can't wait to try it. We are using old small containers from kitchen that were decluttered and repurposed for this. Bought a tiny grow light for some tomato starting indoors. Winter sowing some. Using what we have due to inflation. We got oodles of tomatoes and pepper plants winter sowing in our well lit breezeway last year. Much cheaper than buying them. Much easier. Have fun gardening everyone!

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

That sounds like a good mix! I'm curious if you sterilized the leftover container mix?

[@rg-mi5hh]

Didn't sterilize it.

[@christinewyzer3121]

Great tip about size

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Thanks

[@JasonCarr1979]

Very informative. Thank you!

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Glad it was helpful!

[@roberttillotson6861]

Based on the nute you like to use, you should really try Gaia Mania by NFTG. It’s a 1-5-1. Ingredients: Soybean meal extract, feather meal, bone meal, worm castings, Humic acids and Kelp extract (Ascophyllum nodosum) along with Humic and Fulvic Acids

[@Hayley-sl9lm]

Sweet overalls!

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Thanks!

[@iBuffy_]

Hey Jenna! I just planted my cool weather crops and I usually use FoxFarm. It's my go to but like you said it's not cheap. You literally made this video in perfect timing.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Do you use the same one I showed in the video (organic big bloom) or one of their others? I thought about the Holy Mackerel or the Kelp Me, Kelp You foods, but haven't tried them yet.

[@TonyMcCartney]

First time starting from seed. Use store bought vegetable plants in the past. Got everything ready inside and out. Many seeds, soils, fertilizers and a three small grow light stands and lights. Only have one bulb, but gets good reviews. May upgrade to 2 light setups for 2026. I plan on starting based on the Growing app I use. March & Mid March for some. as late as May 1st for squash! Will see how things go. I found that starting too soon doesn’t benefit if the weather is cold outside. Will plant Tomatoes and Squash out in Mid May. Thanks for all the tips, especially the liquid fertilizer. I’m actually use it Happy Frog Potting Mix as my seed starting mix, instead of a seed starting mix without nutrients. Most of what I do/will do, like Lean & Lower Trellising for my Indeterminate Tomatoes I learner from The Gardening Channel With James Prigioni. I will be subscribing to your channel as an added resource. Thanks again, Jenna!

[@RealBradMiller]

Love the dandelion picture! They are such neat plants; I have some white-flowering ones from Baker Creek Seeds that I hope start blooming this year. Great video, have an awesome week, Jenna!

[@RealBradMiller]

Started lots of plants here in the southern tip of Ohio(first year growing here), many are probably way too early to start, but I do have space and time to keep them going. Here's the ones I am most excited for: Little Finger eggplant Black goji berry Holy basil Snake gourd San Marzano tomato Black Knowlian morning glory Just the normal stuff in the greenhouse, as you named in the video. ✌️🙂

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

They really are neat plants- and so very many uses! I'd love to hear what you think of the black morning glory- I'm very intrigued!

[@papawsplace]

Hello Ms. Jenna. Have you ever tried the AgroThrive Fertilizer for your seedlings? It doesn't smell bad for indoors. At one time you could get little free samples off their website.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

No- but that sounds like something I should be trying! Thank you!

[@ThScarletPimpernel]

Thanks Jenna, I’ve been using your recipe for seed starting mix (but with worm castings if I have it). It works great and goes along way. Might need to try coir in the future too.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

I'm glad it's been working well for you!

[@ingridskitchengarden]

I started peas yesterday, and onions. Hopefully brassicas on the weekend. I use Elliot Coleman’s seed starting mix.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Nice!

[@deerfeeder2076]

Great video. I'm starting strawberries currently on a similar shelf/light setup. Soon I will have a polytunnel going with raised beds etc...Cauliflower looks good for that and some carrots.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Nice!