Learning how to start seeds indoors was one of the first things we had to learn. And itâs now the benchmark sign of early spring on the homestead. Itâs the first real sign that winter is behind us and warmer days are on the horizon! Here in Zone 6b, where our last frost date isnât until April 30, starting seeds inside gives us a head start on our spring garden prep, helps us save money, and lets us nurture our garden from the very beginning.
In this post, Iâll walk you through exactly how weâre starting seeds this season, including tips for other Zone 6b gardeners or anyone whoâs still in the cold snap of late March.
Why Start Seeds Indoors?
If youâve ever stood in the garden center debating between seed packets or ready-to-plant seedlings, you know thereâs a lot to consider! So hereâs why we go the DIY route:
- Saves money â Seeds cost much less than buying plants later.
- Greater variety â Youâre not limited to whatâs at the local nursery!
- Stronger, healthier plants â You control the growing conditions right from the start.
- Earlier harvests â Get a jumpstart while the ground is still cold.
- Itâs just plain fun â Thereâs something magical about watching life sprout from a tiny seed.
Know Your Zone 6b Frost Dates
In Zone 6b there are a variety of last frost dates that depend on your location. (Find your US Hardiness Zone here.) Our last frost date is around April 30, so timing is key. (Find your last frost date here.) Hereâs a general rule we follow:
| Plant Type | When to Start Indoors (Zone 6b) |
|---|---|
| Tomatoes & Peppers | 6-8 weeks before last frost (early-mid March) |
| Cucumbers & Squash | 3-4 weeks before last frost (early April) |
| Herbs (Basil, Parsley) | 6-8 weeks before last frost (early-mid March) |
| Lettuce & Greens | 4-6 weeks before last frost (mid March) |
đĄ Tip: Double-check the back of your seed packet for specific recommendations!
Some of theese plants actually do better for us if we direct sow them in the garden after our last frost date. So play around, experiment, and find what works best for you! For example, we almost never start squash or cucumbers inside. Instead, they always go right into the ground once itâs warm enough.
What You Need to Start Seeds Indoors
Hereâs my simple, no-fuss seed-starting kit:
â Seed trays or pots (we often reuse plastic clamshell containers or Chinese takeout containers!)
â Seed-starting mix (light and well-draining)
â Seeds (heirloom are favorites for our homestead!)
â Water mister or spray bottle
â Labels & a marker (because you WILL forget which tray is which)
â Grow lights (optional but super helpful for strong seedlings) We actually donât start as many seeds indoors as we used to, so Iâm skipping the grow lights this year to save space. A sunny window is doing the trick for now!
Step-by-Step: How to Start Seeds Indoors
1. Prep Your Containers
Poke holes for drainage if needed, and fill with your seed-starting mix.
đĄ Tip: Get your seed mix wet before filling your trays! Properly hydrated soil will increase your success rate.
2. Plant the Seeds
Follow the packet instructions for depth. Gently press the seeds into the soil and lightly cover.
3. Water Gently
Mist the soil so itâs damp but not soaking. Too much water = moldy seeds.
4. Provide Warmth & Light
Place trays in a warm spot (around 65-75°F) and under grow lights or a sunny window.
5. Watch & Wait!
Check daily for moisture and signs of germination. Once seedlings sprout, make sure they get 12-16 hours of light per day to avoid leggy stems.
How to Start Seeds Indoors: Hardening Off for Zone 6b
About 7-10 days before transplanting, we start hardening off seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions:
1ď¸âŁ A few hours in dappled sun
2ď¸âŁ Slowly increase exposure each day
3ď¸âŁ Protect from wind and cold snaps!
This helps toughen up the plants before they go into your garden beds post-frost.
Our Favorite Seeds This Year
For our homestead garden this spring, weâre starting:
- Tomatoes: Roma & a variety of cherry tomatoes
- Peppers: California Wonder Bell
- Herbs: Basil, Dill, Fennel
- Greens: Kale & a salad mix
- Flowers: Dahlias, asters, and daisies (for pollinators + cut flowers!)
Extra Tips for How to Start Seeds Indoors
â Repurpose what you have! Yogurt cups, paper rolls, egg cartons, or clamshell berry containers make great seed trays.
â Keep a garden journal to track what you planted and when.
â Involve the kids! This is a favorite homeschool science activity in our house.
Final Thoughts: A Simple Spring Start
Starting seeds indoors has become a sweet family tradition and one of the ways we fully embrace seasonal living on the homestead. Itâs simple, rewarding, and a tangible reminder that spring is here, even if the garden beds are still bare.
Are you starting seeds this spring? Iâd love to know whatâs going in your garden! Drop a comment or share your favorite seed varieties below.
FAQs
Do I need grow lights to start seeds indoors?
Not necessarily, but in Zone 6b, grow lights help seedlings thrive during cloudy early spring days.
Can I reuse last yearâs seed trays and containers?
Absolutely! Just sanitize them with hot soapy water or a vinegar solution to prevent disease.
Whatâs the best soil for seed starting?
Use a seed-starting mixâlighter than regular potting soilâto help delicate seedlings grow strong roots.
When should I move seedlings outdoors in Zone 6b?
After your last frost date (around April 30 for us) and once seedlings have been hardened off for at least 7-10 days.
How often should I water my seedlings?
Keep the soil damp but not soggy. A mister bottle works great for gentle watering.
Whatâs the easiest seed to start indoors?
Lettuce, basil, and tomatoes are some of the easiest and most rewarding!