1. The time to sow seeds indoors depends on when plants may normally be planted outdoors. Plant indoors a few weeks earlier so that the vegetables are ready to plant outdoors at the appropriate times. Click here for a table showing Click veg planting dates for outside sowing.

2. Buy seeds from reputable sources:

• so the seeds are disease free

• stored correctly, kept dry and cool

3. Sterilise containers used for sowing seeds

• wash in soapy water

• rinse in a solution of one part bleach and 10 parts water

4. Use what ever containers are available:

• yoghurt pots, margarine tubs etc should have holes in the bottom for drainage
• plastic trays are ideal for small seeds
• old cardboard toilet rolls or peat pots can be planted outdoors, with the growing seed still in situ, at planting time.

5. When sowing seeds:

• use loose, well-drained, and fine textured soil
• water the seeds in
• put pots in clear plastic bags
• leave in a warm place out of direct sunlight

6. After germination:

• take pot out of plastic bag
• place pot in bright light
• let soil dry between waterings, but do not allow seedlings to wilt

7. Start “hardening off” two weeks before planting outside:

• gradually move seedlings to an area with cooler temperatures
• when first place seedlings outdoors, keep them in the shade
• bring them inside at night
• gradually move plants into the sunlight for short periods each day
• slowly increase the amount of sunlight and time seedlings spend outdoors.

8. Transplant seedlings into the vegetable garden on a cloudy day or late in the afternoon to prevent sun damage.

9. Once in the garden,

• check the seedlings daily
• water when necessary to prevent wilting
• cover with nets to protect from birds
• look out for slugs
  
• cover if frost is forecast
  

Starting vegetable seeds indoors gives you a head start in the vegetable garden.