Starting Seeds Early Without Grow Lights

Want to start your seeds early, but don't have grow lights?
This video demonstrates several techniques of starting seeds early without grow lights, so you can get a jump start on the growing season!
I share 4 methods of starting seeds without grow lights, as well as a trick for an affordable grow light set up-- in case you have your heart set on using grow lights!
Some of the links included here are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission on qualifying purchases at no cost to you. I will only recommend items I love and should you choose to make a purchase, it helps support the channel! Thank you!
Hortisketch Garden Planner and Garden Manager (use my code JENNA5 for $5 off) - gardensavvy.com
My favorite, long-lasting seed starting trays: (all about the garden): allaboutthegarden.com/?sca_re...
North Spore Premium Mushroom Starting Supplies (use my code GROWFULLY for 10% off): bit.ly/GROWFULLY
Lomi Composter: lomi.sjv.io/e43XYz
Dripworks Irrigation: www.dripworks.com/?ref=Growfully
Omlet Chicken Coops and Supplies: www.omlet.us/shop/chicken_kee...
The best workwear for women: Dovetail Workwear- (use code GROWFULLY for $10 Off): dovetailworkwear.com/growfullywithjenna
My favorite minimalist work boots: Lem’s Shoes-
RX Soil Testing (use my code “growfully” for 10% off your order): rxsoil.com/nutrients?source=g...
If you use Amazon and want to buy anything at all, click through with this affiliate link: www.amazon.com/ref=nav_logo?&...
00:00 Intro
00:33 Starting Seeds Early in a Window
03:30 A Trick to Window Growing!
07:08 Starting Seeds Early using Winter Sowing
08:58 Starting Seeds Early using Cold Frames or Low Tunnels
14:08 Starting Seeds Early using a Greenhouse
16:06 BONUS: Starting Seeds Early using Grow Lights-- on the cheap!
#zone6gardening #seedstarting #ohiogardening

[@GardenerScott]

Great information, Jenna. It was wonderful that you showed how plants react differently when exposed to lower light levels. The options you show make this a very informative video.

[@slhemp3556]

Totally! 👍🏾

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Thanks so much!

[@southjerseyghost3500]

I’m

[@joannanoob8159]

@@slhemp3556 lol

[@sharoncameron2251]

,,

[@joan-lisa-smith]

For those starting seeds with a drafty old house like mine (15c/60f at night) I cover the seedlings at night with a cotton folded sheet (don't use plastic or you get condensation) and shove several small pop bottles I fill with hot water under there with them. This fixed my issue of seeds that need more heat to germinate like sweet peepers. I just discovered you, sub'd and hit the bell. Great info, glad I've discovered you.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Great tip- thank you, Jo

[@joan-lisa-smith]

@@GrowfullywithJenna Hey just grabbed some boxes today and set up your tin foil idea. The boxes have a lip around the edge so once stood on their side the seedling cups sit inside...this means I can lift each box easily to move groups of seedlings to sit on other window ledges as the sun moves. Such a great idea, thanks again.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

@@joan-lisa-smith Nice!

[@krymsonshenk6050]

Thanks for the tip

[@rachelgalus]

I’m elated to see all the # of comments on this video. People need to see your videos. You are the most knowledgeable grower I have seen on KZbin. We all need to grow food and grow it well. Most garden you tubers are southern or Florida/Cali. We need your unique perspective here. Thank you for taking the time to teach us.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Thank you so much, Rachel- I truly appreciate this!

[@brandihagerty958]

Same! I live in Zone 6 in PA. Both you and MIGardener. I love that we are on the same schedule. I get so jealous of the gardeners further south that can grown much earlier and longer. I feel so bad for those who live even further north.

[@NWOisUponUs]

Finally found someone suffering from lack of sun like me, in Pennsylvania. This will be my first attempt at starting seeds. Till I found you I was going to give up, thanks to you, I'm going for it. Keep those videos coming I will need you through my venture for sure!!

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Best of luck! I'd love to hear how the seed starting goes for you!

[@mollygonzalez8454]

Thank you Jenna for your window reflector trick! You rock! Literally the day after I watched your video, my grow light decided to burn out, leaving dozens of baby seedlings in the dark. My property is North-facing Zone 5b, but luckily I was able to utilize the one south-facing window I have and I rigged up a similar reflector panel, and the seedlings are thriving, not one has reached for the window yet!

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

I'm so glad to hear this, Molly!!

[@itsporkroll3401]

Aussie sighting! I made a few cold frames this season. The best so far was the simplest, 2 clear plastic basement window well covers taped together. Maybe a bit of overkill on the coldest parts of jan/feb, but around the inside edge I put some bricks to soak up the sun during the day and release the warmth over night. You can fit alot of seedlings inside!

[@rg-mi5hh]

Good idea!

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

😄 Good eye! And great idea on the window well covers and bricks- thank you for sharing!

[@norxgirl1]

Where did you get the window well covers? Great idea!!!

[@itsporkroll3401]

@@norxgirl1 I got them at Home Depot

[@barbaravance6774]

That's such a wonderful idea!

[@SiriusScientist]

My first year seed starting we lived in a small apartment in Boston. I tried to use huge south facing windows my first year, but our apartment was on the 12th floor and the windows were too cold for some of what I tried to start. I then used a metal shelf in a corner of the room that fit one 1020 tray per shelf, and 2ft shop lights I got for $15. Worked great! I used a version of that set up, expanding what I started when we moved to a slightly bigger apartment (we initially planted in a friend’s yard, then got a community plot we used for two years). We now have a house with 2 acres north of the city and it will be my first year in our new garden. I did a winter garden with container micro tomatoes this winter and that turned out great (using my seedling lights).

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Glad to hear you found a setup that worked for you AND that you've got a new garden this year-- that's so exciting!

[@Godwinpounds4333]

Hello 👋 dear, how are you doing?

[@CrMizer]

Congratulations on moving to your new home, 2 acres is a big step from a community garden. I know you will be so happy planting your garden this year. 😄 happy planting & may you have a great harvest

[@jamespalmerministries6131]

Jenna great idea with the reflector box in the window.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Thanks! I was pleasantly surprised with how well it worked!

[@Tonihaddock]

Thank you for having a nice modulated voice not loud and ear splitting, or talking. About non relevant topics. Subscribing.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

You are welcome. Thank you for subscribing- I appreciate the support!

[@ZEUStheKingGermanShepherd]

Yes!!!! 💯💯💯💯

[@oldtymeliving4198]

Love your German Shepard just chilling out in the sun and brought back memories of ruby my Belgium Shepard She was the smartest most faithful dog I ever had. Keep showing people how to grow their own food. I really believe that growing you own food is becoming more a necessity than it is for fun anymore. Have a great day.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Ruby sounds like a wonderful dog! I absolutely agree and hope that more folks become interested in learning how to grow their own. Take care!

[@ghostridergale]

@@GrowfullywithJenna we’re getting into the gardening with a vengeance! LOL Our ground is all clay and the ground not exactly level either. So far I’ve bought 48 yards of 3 way garden soil at just under $2,000.00 and probably be adding another $1,000.00 in garden soil yet. My garden size will be at least 300 ft by 50ft. Garden soil starts out roughly 6” thick and at the other end is roughly 18” thick so the garden going to be pretty level. There’s another 100ft by 50 ft that has 3 raised bed 12ft by 8 ft and 18” high. Then there’s 6 4ft by 4ft by 12” deep raised garden bed tables on legs that’s 36” high off the ground for my wife to plant and harvest shorter growing plants in cause my wife has bone to bone knees and can’t bend down to even get close to doing anything at ground level. But she’s always been a huge gardener fan and just never had anyone to help her get the kind of garden she’s always wanted. Till she met me anyway! LOL we’re not wealthy people and as much easier it be to move 48 yards of 3 way garden soil around and getting it all leveled out. I’m actually doing it all by hand with just a shovel one shovel of soil at a time! Almost got the last of the 48 yards spread out in the garden area as level as you’ll ever get it! But still need at least another 24 yards to finish up the full length and width of the garden. Then I guess I’ll be putting down woven fabric over the top of the 3 way soil so hopefully I won’t need to do much if any weeding? But I’ll be pulling off the woven fabric after this growing season and adding wood chips to the 3 way soil to compost a little over the winter before putting the woven fabric back on just before next spring to get ready for more plants next year too. Adding the wood chips cause I still need the 3 way garden soil area to come up another 18” to be completely level over the full roughly 450ft by 50ft. Once I get it leveled out completely, I’m planning on building a huge greenhouse over the whole garden area myself using most the trees I have on the property for wood to make the frame. Quite the chore for a 65 year old guy, not to mention disabled from severe neuropathy the last 25 years too. Just take it one day at a time and do as much as I can. Start all over the next day! Never have to worry about getting bored. Plenty of things to do here! LOL

[@oldtymeliving4198]

@@ghostridergale my town has a recycling center. If you buy a sticker for $35 they have compost and you can take as much as you want. Your town might have something like this at the dump our recycling center. Add it to your soil and help cut your costs and add nutrients. Sometimes the local tree cutters will get free chips away. And they’re not treated with any chemicals for the great the layover you’re gone if your garden is not directly next to your house. Just some thoughts maybe help you cut costs as money doesn’t go anywhere as far as it used to. Have a great day Wayne

[@723snoopy]

The foil set up is genius!!

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Apparently you can do the same thing with white paper as it does a great job reflecting back the light- either way, the additional light has helped my seedlings a lot!!

[@LashusJourney]

Great video, it was very informative and straight forward. I started my seeds in February, I put them next to the window where the sunlight at, and it worked well. Thanks for sharing.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Thanks! I'm glad to hear your seedlings are doing well!

[@suzanneweary9739]

You don't know how much I needed this video. Fingers crossed! Thank you, Jenna

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Oh good- I'm glad to hear that, Suzanne! Best of luck!

[@Selahsmum]

You are so kind and we are so spoiled that you do such thorough videos for us! God bless you!

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

So nice of you! Thank you!

[@dera22351]

GREAT ADVICE!! I'm soooo excited about starting earlier this year. Last year was my first year with a garden in all of my adult life and I'M OBSESSED!!

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Yes! Another obsessed gardener- it makes me so happy to hear this!

[@carolynsteele5116]

Really great episode with really good information! I do pretty much all these methods and found them all to be effective. The cold frames work well if I’m home and available to keep adjusting the lids for excessive heat and cold. Winter sowing is set and pretty much forget, and covered hoop rows are excellent. but for optimal results I use fluorescent light with T5 bulbs set very close to the plants. We get the lights free from people remodeling their kitchens and my hubby adds an electrical plug.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Glad you enjoyed it! And thanks for sharing your experience with all the different techniques!

[@barbaraperry2796]

Thank you! I have been looking ALL over trying to find out how to do this without grow lights. Much appreciated!

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Glad I could help!

[@cindyeasterling6917]

Great ideas! I started the milk jugs cold sowing this time and they're working great! I'm going to try the aluminum foil method now and see how well it works for me. I really didn't want to invest in the grow light set-up just yet. Thanks for the advice!

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

I'm glad to hear the cold sowing is doing well for you- that gives me hope!

[@kadesooknanan8933]

@@GrowfullywithJenna ? 》 ♧¡ ¡ ♢♡♡ 》》》》♡♤♧

[@rebeccazody1278]

Yay! Winter sowing is great! I have 120 jugs out right now. 1/2 are flowers.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

How fun!!

[@laurajohnson7836]

Thank you for the reflecting box, this is genius. I also live on OH and I was going to start my seeds this weekend but couldn’t get to it today. I also didn’t want to start them to early so they didn’t get leggy. LOVE this, I am doing it today.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Glad it was helpful, Laura! Happy planting!

[@carolynsteele-pv1ls]

Very well-done and informative! I use shop lights with T-8 bulbs for my seedlings and keep them about 2” above the plants. Get excellent results!

[@franksinatra1070]

Time to get excited about getting things started! I put some radish, lettuce and arugula seeds in Mar 1 under my poly tunnels. I never tried to put things in the ground this early. It's warm right now and they may germinate in the next couple days but I'm nervous about next weekend when it may get down to the low 20's. We'll see how they do.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

I was debating doing the same! I hope they stay snug & warm in those poly tunnels!

[@Javaman92]

I recently moved from Ashtabula County, Ohio back to my childhood home area in upstate NY. Right on the shore of Lake Ontario, also 6a. I managed to get garlic in the ground before winter set in. Now I'm getting excited to get a garden in here. Spring is almost here! :-D

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Lovely! Enjoy that new garden!

[@MaryBornforHealth]

I'm in Michigan and I too started winter sowing for the first time. Very excited to see how it turns out.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

I hope it goes well for you, Mary!

[@peterwong1231]

Loved your idea of the reflective box! Will be using this idea in the next season.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Hope it works well for you, Peter!

[@iyanla647]

So, so useful this video (well to be honest all of your videos speaks so much to me😍). Many of this methods I already use for years in my garden (zone 6, Romania). Thank you for all the inspiration and info I get watching your videos. Have a great gardening year!

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Thank you! I hope you have a great gardening year as well!

[@kathleenorourke6917]

Love your show! ❤️ You get right to the information we need!

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Thank you, Kathleen!

[@alancoughlin]

Excellent excellent job! You are such a good communicator and so organized - very very useful! Thank you!

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Thank you so much, Alan!

[@squange20]

Super informative video Jenna. We live in NZ in the North Island where we don’t get snow, and while our winters are quite mild, our temperatures do dip into the low 3 to 5C with some frosts. So the first plantings of veg did not yield half as much as we would’ve liked, so we are adopting a different approach this time, and will also start with seed sowing. Since it’s not overly cold here in the winter, we’ll use a small cold frame without heat or lights, and hopefully see some results. I’ll report back to you on how that works out. Thank you for the very helpful videos.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

That sounds like a good plan! I hope it works well for you!

[@donnajoy6951]

I am happy to have found you this morning. I am a week behind sowing my seeds and was mad because I thought there was no hope... but here you are with HOPE. Getting started today using the foil method. I am here in TEXAS Zone 8A so I do have a south facing window in an enclosed patio so I will prepare the setup today... sitting here excited already at the possibilities. 😀

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

So glad to hear this! Happy sowing!

[@lupitaladechicagovlogs980]

Hello. I;m in Chicago and I really, really want to thank you for this video. You made my day with the idea of the "Reflecting" thing that I'll use in the next week with my peppers and tomatoes

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Hello Lupita! Best of luck with your peppers and tomatoes!

[@ronndapagan]

Thankhwnk you for providing a garden channel from Ohio. I live in the southwest Ohio about an hour north of Cincinnati and in the general area of Insterstate 75 and 70 . I have two green houses. One is the portable and the other is the aluminum 8ft by 6ft. I started with container gardening last year latearound the end of May and around the middle of June. The starter grow kits did produce somewhat inside but when I took them outside they stopped. When I returned from my birthday visit with my dad and younger brother in Arizona, I bought starter plants from Lowes, Home Depot and Walmart to get a head start on my garden. My seed tray did not produce any of the seeeds that I planted. By September, I puchased the aluminum 6ft by 8ft greenhouse to try to grow food through the fall and winter but that didn't work. Also the panels of my aluminum greenhouse have to be gorilla taped to the frame. This year, I plan to make a wooden frame for both greenhouses and a platform to put my various containers on in my backyard. I like the idea of a cold frame because I tried to grow some vegetables over the winter and they are just starting to sprout. Thank you for bringing gardening to Ohio.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

You are welcome! I'm just about 45 minutes straight north of you! Sounds like you've got a lot going on there-- I hope your wooden frames for the greenhouses go well. Happy gardening!

[@jeanscruggs812]

I'm 68, have not grown so much as a weed, but for food security purposes, want to gain gardening knowledge/skills. I do not have the space or $ for grow lights and so, it appeared my garden was doomed to fail. Thank you so much for "shedding some light" on this gloomy subject. You truly are a Godsend to this elderly newbie.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

I'm so glad to hear you've decided to gain gardening knowledge & skills- that's awesome, Jean!

[@BrisLS1]

Thanks, Jenna! Very great ideas. I am running around the house putting cups, trays, and pots in the windows. I did just open a plastic baggie that t had sealed some tomatoes in tiny peet pots inside of ), and that seemed to really soften up the cardboard with moisture, kept the soil moist, while getting those seeds to crack. Thanks.

[@donnacotter7572]

It's my first year using lights. I couldn't afford grow lights and am using six, 6500K, 5000 lumen LED shop lights. I line my shelves with cardboard to catch any drips from removing domes, etc. for safety sake. I use a mylar blanket to reflect the light back and I also use some extra hooks to tilt the lights toward the center a bit to get better coverage. I'm already out of room and have so much more to grow!! Thanks for these alternatives.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Sounds like you've got a good setup going, Donna! I feel like that's a common problem for gardeners-- we're always running out of room with so much more to grow 😄

[@ericaharris6897]

Thank you so much! I was discouraged at even starting my plants inside due to the many people saying you can't! I appreciate this so much and can't wait ti get started! I can't do grow lights right (money) and this is the first year I have even tried to grow plants! Thank you so much for showing me because I am honestly not sure what I'm doing! This will be a trial and error deal!

[@CBsGreenhouseandGarden]

Great info Mrs. Jenna. Stay safe and have a wonderful weekend.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Thank you! You too!

[@calirazpotnik6868]

We don't have South facing windows but we get alot of morning sun in the front of the house and my Pinocchio Dwarf Tomatoes have done great in the windows, so hoping the foil and cardboard would works for some seedlings. Our little ville is small and supported glass factory workers in the early 1800s when the rails were the only method of transportation unless by horse. We have tons of Sun through the growing season. We are in the same zone as you in SW PA. I find your videos very helpful as this 2022 season is my 2nd garden. Thanks for all your help! I would be lost if it wasn't for the Gardening KZbinrs! Many Thanks!

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

I'm glad to hear you've got a nice sunny spot, and that you finding the videos helpful. I hope this gardening season is a great one for you!

[@carolschedler3832]

This is perfect! I forgot about the foil reflective backdrop! When you had that box cut up, it would be tempting to cover with foil, then tape box together. With winter-sowing I did use that method(northeast Ohio) one year. That was a few years back and the only “successful” celery I’ve grown. Those winter sown seedlings were small, but super hardy and are very well. So I could never compare them to greenhouse starts. Those tomatoes did really well too.

[@keithhilton8869]

Hi Jenna, another great video. Love the idea with the aluminum foil. The weather here at the moment is awful. We have had 4 weeks of solid rain. My whole garden has been flooded. Cant do anything outside, so it's a lazy sunday watching your videos. Cheers

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Oh no! I'm so sorry to hear that Keith. I hope it dries up soon!

[@patrickharmon9459]

Thank you for your information. It's been years since I've been able to have a garden. I'm inspired by your teaching, Thank you and God bless you and your family

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

You are welcome- I hope you are able to have a garden again some time!

[@patrickharmon9459]

@@GrowfullywithJenna planning on it this year. Thanks

[@sherryparry6651]

Thank you Jenna. Some really good tips which I will put to use. I'm in zone 7 as well.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

You are welcome!

[@jcl5345]

I have been looking a long time for someone to talk about starting seedlings indoors without grow lights. All I can find is "not recommended, you should use grow lights." I think that throughout history, gardeners have tried to get a jump on their growing season indoors - noone had grow lights. (when I was young, the only people who did were the pot growers. I'm sure some of our ancestors were clever enough to rig up workable solutions. I thought about using mirrors in front of a window, just a thought, haven't tried it. Thanks for the logical answers, I'm glad to hear solutions, not absolutes.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

I agree with you 100%- I always try to think about how folks did things before we had all these 'advancements' in technology 😄. I also don't believe there are many absolutes in gardening!

[@noraalvarado8178]

What a great video!! So much good infomation with so many different options for all of us.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Thanks, Nora!

[@PeleLua1]

Great information and tips! You are very easy to understand and follow. Thank you! So happy I stumbled upon your channel 😊

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

I'm glad to hear this- thank you!

[@marianmurphy5385]

If you need heat to germinate seeds..I’ve found that using an electric drying airier works..especially if you use that trick of putting seeds on damp kitchen paper in a plastic sandwich bag..just pop on top something you’ve put on the dryer

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Thanks for sharing

[@HoosierBenzo]

Really interesting experiments with the window sowings! Thanks for sharing. I use a 4’ x 2’ four-bulb fluorescent grow light with T5 high output, 6500K color temp bulbs. Got it from a local hydroponics store for around $110. It works very well in terms of light output for starting seeds indoors, but it does generate a good amount of heat. I would have no problem using a big LED shop light. I was just at Menard’s with my dad and he picked one up for about $70 that puts out 10,000 lumens at 5000K color temp. You can go even cheaper than, but that one has a good light spread due to larger ballast.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Thanks for sharing the lights you use!

[@TDAEON]

Thank you this is very helpful for beginners. I am in a CA zone 9A with a very long grow season. No snow and frost potentially maybe 2 to 3 months usually . I would like to try seeding in trays outside but afraid of them drying out. Or worse damping off. Have lots of seed packets but slightly intimidated. 🤔

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

You’re welcome!

[@user-db9iy2tp3i]

Jenna, you're a smart cookie! I can tell that this is your passion.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Thank you!

[@carmgenuardi1738]

New gardener and subscriber here. Thank you. I appreciate the details you provide.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Hello & welcome- thank you for the support!

[@MikeV607]

I'm using 4' 4800LM, 5000k daylight LED shop lights and they do a great job for seed starting. Oh, I also use Mylar tented over the lights to reflect light back to the plants. 😊

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Thanks for the tips!

[@sadieandpayton5372]

I have the pre-made cold frame that you showed outside on the ground at 12:04. Our spinach did awesome all winter! It’s a great little box but wish I had another for my 8’x4’ raised garden.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Glad to hear your spinach is doing awesome!

[@lindag4484]

Lovely Amaryllis! I feel like a horse, in the gate, at the Kentucky Derby just dancin' around waiting for the bell to ring and the gate to open! My small set-up, with grow light, is ready. I am ready ...but must wait a little longer before I can start my seeds indoors, for planting outdoors in zone 5. I think I may try starting a few more things, using foil, and my sunporch window. Thanks for the great idea!

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

That's such a great analogy, Linda! It'll be here soon! And I've gotten such a kick out of that amaryllis-- it was sent to me before Christmas, put on its initial blooms and I figured it was done. I forgot to throw it out and then one day it just started sprouting out again!

[@russb8151]

It's very common to overlook things like replacement of light bulbs.You could make a video,just based on that🤔.Along with power consumption, initial costs,heat transfer,how far away the light should be,etc,etc.UV light.. differences is light bulb design, efficiency, lumens per watt...etc,etc.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Great idea- thank you! Definitely a winter project for me though.

[@norxgirl1]

Thank you for this info. First channel I've seen to address this issue, since we don't have the resources for all the fancy grow lights.....

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

You're very welcome!

[@edogden2214]

I use T12 fluorescent lights they work great for me. I'm in zone 6 Massachusetts love your videos they help me alot.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Good to know! Thank you!

[@lonismith3002]

Helpful tip. Dollar stores have foil based car windshield coverings that work excellent for the reflective foil you need. Cheap and easy.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Great tip!

[@tammycomeau9993]

You're going to love winter sowing! Great video.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

I hope so! I can't wait to see the results!

[@geometriccharmer5706]

I keep aquariums so I had so extra led aquarium plant lights laying around, I've been using them for starting seeds and everything looks so healthy. Not one of my tomatoes is leggy! If you want to try aquariums lights be sure to get plant ones, I like the Nicrew brand since they're super bright and fairly priced.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

What a smart trick! Thanks for sharing!

[@teresaabney1532]

Hi Jenna! This is Glenn from Layton Utah. I live in zone 5 and start a lot of my vegetables from seed indoors, tomatoes, peppers, and onions. This year I tried your reflective grow boxes They worked wonderful. They are in south-west windows. I am also trying your frost cloth covering with my onions and carrots for the first time .I so enjoy your videos and the information that you give. Thanks!

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

I’m so glad to hear this worked well for you!!

[@rayyg786]

I turn the trays Daily, put them out over daytime. So far, so good. Last year I didn't expose them to drafts enough, the stalks had little Resistance. Luckily most I could plant in the ground up to the leaf and they were fine.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Glad to hear that worked for you

[@asohnuh]

I have done this trick with the foil wrap in the past. It works great.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Good to know!

[@paulrobison4698]

Love it, the neighbours thought I had solar batteries lol. But I use reflective insulation roll. Great content carry on, great job thanks .

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Great idea on the insulation roll, Paul- thanks for sharing!

[@stevemindham520]

We have used the reflective box to great effect for many years. We elevate the box in the window to get even more light and warmth.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Great idea!

[@terryeichler351]

Thank You for the aluminum-covered cardboard box idea. I'll try this with some daylily seeds.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

You're welcome- best of luck!

[@heathermacdonald6404]

Love that reflective box! Thanks!

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

You are welcome!

[@sanitaseile7585]

Nice dogs! I also have old proper wood tables. I made cold frame from old wood planks and then old windows on top, in colder nights covered with old blankets and in hotter days had to open windows because of moisture building up inside where it was so much hotter. That worked very well last year. Now we built greenhouse and i hope it will substitute cold boxes. Greenhouse with sealed north wall and cold sink trench.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Thank you! Cold frames and greenhouses are so useful to have- I hope your greenhouse works well for you!

[@heatherannekennedy9368]

Love this reflector hack! I'm excited to try it! It's not pretty but it sure does the job!

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

I hope it works well for you, Heather!

[@heatherannekennedy9368]

@@GrowfullywithJenna My ever efficient husband had already recycled all of our cardboard boxes so I used a dollar tree project display board. Already it is about 10° warmer in my little windowsill area! I figure with the project boards, I can just fold them up and use them year to year!

[@krissycus]

Thank you for this! I'm off grid and can't really run grow lights all the time, so these options sound great. I'm going to try the bale mini-greenhouse next year. One thing I'm trying this year is just using my greenstalk with the frost cover over it. I don't get extremely cold weather, so this may be enough to get some seeds started.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

You are welcome- best of luck!

[@debjohnson8063]

I was just at Menards today and saw solar powered shop lights.

[@cindydunn3036]

Excellent reflective light tip. Thanks for the idea 👍

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

You're welcome!

[@UndoKarma]

What a marvelous idea. This is a game changer for me. Thank you !!!

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

You are so welcome!

[@kittiew260]

Your amaryllis is stunning! Great video to help those without lighting to be able to grow with windows or winter sowing. Got shop LED lights @ Walmart under 20 each plus did purchase LED T5 lights. Actually the expense mainly shelves vs lights. I have only right now shop lights going vs T5 want to do a compare. I like you can't quite start anything outside Cole crops. Mid March I can start. I totally agree that for transplants you really don't need more than shop light with 5000 Kelvin and daylight or 6500 lumens.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Thanks, Kittie- I've gotten such a kick out of that amaryllis-- it was sent to me before Christmas, put on its initial blooms and I figured it was done. I forgot to throw it out and then one day it just started sprouting out again! Also, thanks for sharing the type of lights you're using!

[@SDaulton]

I love all your experiments! Thank you!

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Glad you like them!

[@williamaber2791]

Great tips, Jenna. I'll be trying the sun box idea

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Thanks, William!

[@leanordials8008]

Love the reflection box idea! Thank you.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

You are welcome

[@arikle22]

Such user-friendly, excellent information. Thank you!

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

You're welcome!

[@shamshersinghfarmernews884]

Mam, you have given information about growing seeds. Loved it, And felt profitable.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Thanks a lot

[@virginiaseedsskogen2038]

The tomatoes can be repotted, placing the stems deeper into to dirt, burying them halfway up the stem or so. The stem will grow more roots, the roots system will be good and strong by the time you plant them outside.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Absolutely!

[@ghostridergale]

I think it you turn your plants 180 degrees everyday while the plants are in your windows will help your plants from stretching towards the windows so much!

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

It certainly helps, but doesn't completely prevent stretching. They still want to stretch, but the plant stems will be straighter if you switch them back and forth like this.

[@tomcahill6981]

Jenna, I am reporting from Gettysburg, PA. I use Winter Sowing. It works, but one thing one must do, in my opinion, is to keep the soil lightly misted. The top of the soil can dry out quickly in the Winter. Pertaining to your idea of the reflective panel, what a great idea! I have my jugs outside right now, but I will try this technique for my next batch of seedlings. Again, thanks for a no brainer. Tom Cahill

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Thanks for sharing, Tom. I've not had that experience with my winter sowing- but I'm sure in areas that are experiencing drier winters this will help!

[@SilkiesPb]

I live east of atlanta and are last frost date is March 31 but with days like this week (in the 70’s) I’ve been letting my seeds sit outside in the sun. I also have one tray inside next to a window to see the difference in growth and hardiness.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Oh nice- I'm sure your plants are loving it!

[@SilkiesPb]

@@GrowfullywithJenna both have been doing great so we’ll see how these next few weeks go.

[@susiew9836]

Thanks so much! Answered so many of my questions!

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

You're welcome!

[@joannbaumann4028]

I also set up lights under an Amish worship bench and a vintage pastry table. Use eyehooks. You can use table underneath too.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

That sounds lovely!

[@coloradoprofessionalinspec720]

I got my whole light setup from Walmart. Each 4ft LED shop light fixture was $19 and the Shelf was $90. All in the hardware section of Walmart. It's working really well. Also I bought a cheap timer there for six bucks and I am running lights for 20 hours a day.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Good deal!

[@grantaugustyniak6667]

Love the foil method ! Plus it keeps the bottom of the soil warmer .

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Yes indeed!

[@atransformedlife]

Fantastic video! Saved me a lot of money and now I have a use for those old hay bales

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Glad I could help!

[@ejgreer5743]

I’ve got the same metal shelf as you, they are so easy to hang lights from! I have one shelf that has great value grow lights, one that has 2-5000 lumens shop lights (Walmart), and one that has 2-7000 lumens shop lights (Lowes), both sets of shop lights are in the color daylight (about 4-5,000 kelvin/color temp) and I will definitely be going with the higher output shop lights from now on for seedlings. I find my highest rated lights don’t have to be as close to my seedlings I have them mounted all the way up and they haven’t stretched at all and look great, they do get a little bit warm but don’t seem to affect the plants so far. But the lower rated lights have to stay that standard 2-3 in above the plants range so I’m constantly having to move them up with the plants.

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Yes- good point about the lower rated lights! It can be a bit tedious to have to move them all the time to keep them just above your seedlings. Thanks for sharing what you are using!

[@smileformenowplease]

EJ, could you tell me how far your shelfs are apart?, Thanks

[@johnjude2685]

Createrontherise congratulations my favorite Gardener Teacher and for the past 8 months. Don't know why you wouldn't be recognized. I myself have mentioned your "Growfully with Jenna " on my Facebook, Several websites and by voice face to face around Columbus OH. Hopefully you fill I'm your favorite fan. Thanks for your teaching Lady

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

I truly appreciate your support, John. Thank you!

[@deecooper1567]

Hi Jenna, got my mil jugs done & need to wait a few more weeks for summer seeds. Except those that take 100+ days. I’m upper dry desert of northern Nevada… zone 5/6 👵🏻👩‍🌾❣️

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Sounds great, Dee!

[@jasoncar7215]

Thank you! I've been waiting for this video because I do not have access to grow lights so I will be using the aluminum foil method as well as the florescent lights. I have some lights on the bottoms of my cabinets and will use that before my wife makes me move them. LOL

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

You are welcome, Jason! Hopefully your wife lets you use them long enough to get those seeds started 😄

[@Tonihaddock]

That seems brilliant I’m gonna try this today

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

I hope it works well for you, Toni!

[@rachelbee7921]

Thank you so much for these tips! ❤️

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

I’m happy to share!

[@AudreyEWrobel]

Useful tips, thanks!

[@freedom_born]

Good blessed morning from Down Under to Ohio. Just gone 8am here Sat morning. Sunrise at 5.30 (ish). Just entered autumn (Fall) so sunset at around 6ish. Start of @12/12 light cycle. Ohwel, time to get out into the garden for the day. Sorry, ranting again. Loving the content

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Good morning and thank you! I hope you enjoyed your day in the garden... I'm still impatiently waiting for things to warm up here... but spring is on its way!

[@freedom_born]

Ahhh beloved Spring. Wishing you the best weekend.

[@tonyascreativespace3067]

i love this idea!

[@bobwatfprd2328]

I start romaine in the windowsill in individual yogurt containers. ....works well as they can be plopped into the garden early. In Ontario Canada so everything else goes under t5 bulbs. I'll give that reflective box in the window a try....thanks!!

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Nice! Thanks for sharing how you start your seeds, Bob!

[@johnjude2685]

That box joints can hold in ten minutes with wood glue and never come lose. I'd just glue and sat something heavy for 10 minutes. Love your aluminum foil idea ,Hopefully my neighbors see this for they use windows and sure your reflection box is improving the window system. Thanks for your teaching Lady

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Great idea!

[@JJolaine]

Thanks for the great video. I’m in Cbus, OH.

[@carolschedler3832]

❤️ Love your videos! ❤️. Thank you!

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Thank you!

[@sllashbr]

Awesome information!!!! So glad I stumbled on your site!:)

[@GrowfullywithJenna]

Glad it was helpful, Shannon!