Don't sell yourself short. You have had some very good successes in your garden. Your challenge to yourself to learn new things is a good one. Growing your own transplants is so rewarding!
After the seeds germinate take the plastic tops off the cells so you don’t get moldy cells. Also bottom water every three days or so and avoid spraying water on the babies that come up so you can avoid disease!
Glad I read this comment. I’ve been spritzing my seedlings! I don’t know why I thought that was a good idea since I know you don’t want to spray your plants when they are outside
I have learned so much from your channel and one thing that always sticks out to me is how supportive your husband is. That’s so nice to see you both work and plan together.
suggestion, use the chains. You want the lights close when they are first starting. over the register.....I would rotate the trays top to bottom. That heat will make them dry out quickly. I have shelves in a room in the basement, my grow room. I double the shelves and lights for this season. I have over 100 starts of cabbage, broccoli, brussel sprouts and collards. Love starting seeds!!!!!!! You'll do good.
When Todd turned the lights on for the first time, your reaction was like turning the lights on the Christmas tree for the first time. It made me smile. I am seed starting also for the first time this year. My husband and daughter are both the same type personality that doesn’t like to do anything their not good at and are very competitive. We embrace it and enjoy the “contests” it has set off thru the years. Lol We have the luxury of trying our seeds in private while you have chosen to take us along with you on your journey.I truly wish you every success and joy!!👩🌾❤️
Peppers like heat. I would use bottom shelf for anything with the higher heat needed for germination and the top for your cooler weather plants. If you feel like its getting to warm put a temp gage at bottom and top so you have an idea with door open and door closed. Have fun planting❤
Oh my goodness Rachel, you said exactly how I feel. I am intimidated and think I won't be good at it so I stay away from doing things. I'm just now, at 55, overcoming my fear of working with yeast ~ 🤦! I've been inspired by you and several other YT ladies on bread making so I've been able to make our own for the last several weeks. Now I'm trying to over come my huge fear of pressure canning. I was raised on water bath canning and that's the only way I have ever canned but if I will pressure can, the sky's the limit! Thank you both for your inspiration ~ God's using you and Todd in wonderful ways! 🙏💞
Hi. Rachel. I just love seeing you and Todd together. I love your little green house. I also know it is going to work. God Bless the two of you. Take care, and have fun. See you in next video. Maria. ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
Wow that is a pretty nice set up to start seeds. I've been wondering how I could do it in the house without upsetting my uncooperative husband. Todd is a gem!!
Dining room table works, south facing window for sunlight and use what you've got for pots. Old egg cartons work for germination, then you can move up to solo cups, etc. Just be sure to have plenty of drainage holes.
I’m so glad you put boiling water over your seed starting mix! Dealing with fungus gnats is almost impossible. If you want to start peppers, you should start them now. I germinate mine using the paper towel in a plastic bag method and place them on my water heater to germinate. I don’t have any heat mats and it works fine.
There's so much good information in these posts! I haven't seen it mentioned that cinnamon will help control any fungus that grows on the soil surface. Research "damping off" disease. It's easy to control by watering from beneath and ground cinnamon sprinkled on the soil surface helps a lot.
I need a Racheal in my life. And I need a Todd by my side. You are both precious and endearing. So happy you gave yourself a chance to succeed by starting seeds. You will have success and lesson your self doubts. You make such a difference for so many. Give yourself some love. Thanks for sharing so much with such heartfelt vulnerability. Wish we were neighbors.
Step one-I recommend you put a tarp or the like under your planting unit as stray soil and water will wreak havoc on wood flooring and carpets. Also, keep an eye on the amount of heat coming out of that vent directly on your flats. If it's too much it could damage your seedlings. I don't mean to be a debbie downer, Rachel, just honest in what I see and what I teach. I prefer for you to succeed.
One thing I learned from living traditions is to layer compost in the bottom of your little pots and top off about the last 3d of the pot with seed starting mix, so it's got food after germination. Best rootballs on my starts last year after learning that!
I even told you to do that. You don't need a south window to do it. I don't have one and start my seeds inside every year. I don't even have a grow light or heat pads. You got this, girl! Don't be afraid.
You will do fine. Just remember to keep the lights down very close to the seed bed so your plants don't get leggy and raise them as the seedlings grow. Add a fan on low to strengthen them once they emerge. I start mine with regular shop lights in our unheated basement where the temperature is steady around 60 degrees (for brassica and lettuce etc) and they just all sprouted. Been doing it that way for years. You will need warmer environment for peppers,, tomatoes etc. I found tomatoes sprout best in warm, dark room. Happiness!
I start most of my seeds in old mushroom containers. Once they get their true leaves I transplant them into the larger cells. The reason for this is so I can pick out the strongest transplants. This will help assure that you have a full flat of healthy plants. This saves on space and soil as well. I have onion seeds and head lettuce started and ready to up pot. I am in NE ohio on the PA boarder. Start your lettuce and kales right now too! I have been growing lettuce in my greenhouse since October! It's all trial and error! Good luck and God Bless!
I have been doing this 40 years...all different ways !! ,YOU will do GREAT !! I see many great suggestions here, only one I would add is I always sprinkle a bit of peat moss over the top of the soil as soon as they sprout to keep "damping off" from killing seedlings...that has been 100% effective for me. You have them right there to keep an eye on them to adjust water/ heat/ light quickly if there are any problems , we live only a few miles from Jerome Market and have animals processed there too, so we are in same growing zone , I enjoy watching you even tho I have been gardening 46 years , new ideas !!
I started all of my seeds last year in a east facing window with a small bit of southern exposure. Not lights no heat mats. Tomatoes, cucumbers had no idea what I was doing end up planting 30 tomatoes outside and the cucumbers And gave away about that many plants as well. Probably the biggest thing I did for success was I created mini green houses using the clear plastic container that my salad came in from the grocery store. I am in Northern Oakland county. You will be successful Rachel.
I’m germinating my own seeds for the first time too. I’m super nervous and can relate- I’m nervous because I’m worried I will fail. I’ve been researching via TH-cam and online resources for months! Super scary. Good luck!
I have a similar grow set up. I also have the same lights as well as some kingbo lights. I rotate my trays around the shelves giving them a different light each day once they germinate. I have a designated space for mine and it never gets taken down. Love that you are taking the plunge into seed starting. For me, it really gives a special sense of pride and satisfaction when you finally eat or preserve the fruits of that labor.
We began gardening and seed starting inside for first time last year..we did not use heat pads and had fantastic success with tomatoes, peppers, squash, cucumbers and watermelons. We had seeds all over the dining room table. You have this.
With the dollar store trays, they are typically very thin plastic and might break/crack and let water out when you start bottom watering your plants. Keep an eye out for it.
I agree. I did end up going to Menards to grab a few of the no hole 10 by 21(I think that's what they are called) for $1.25 each. Totally helped with water control and messes.
Rachel, you shouldn't need heat mats for your cole crops (broccoli, cauliflower, kale, brussel sprouts, kohlrabi, lettuce.) You may want to invest in a heat mat for your tomatoes and peppers and definitely ginger. I did not use the plastic cover once they are germinated because too much humidity can cause mold. If you sprinkle cinnamon on the soil, it will help stop mold growth. You should have the lights as close to the trays as possible to avoid leggy plants. You can't really do anything to correct them after becoming leggy unless they are tomatoes. Gary Pilarchik (The Rusted Garden) is definitely the one to watch for seed starting on youtube. Good Luck, I am sure you will have great success. 💕😊Francine
I have similar greenhouses and never even thought to bring them inside! They're very prone to blowing over outside, so I think your use of them makes much more sense.
You can do this Rachael!!! I have this exact same little greenhouse and have started many seeds in it. You will be amazed at how much it can hold. 🍅🫑🍆🥬 Tip: I zip tied my lights on the cross bars and just placed wooden blocks under the trays to raise them closer to the light when needed.
Last year I started all my garden from seed for the first time. I had a very basic set up...wire shelves and grow lights (no heat mats). I placed the shelves over a heat register just like your planning to do. Worked like a charm!!! The soil temperature is actually more crucial for germination than the ambient temperature. One suggestion: Start your seeds on the bottom shelf where the soil can be warmed by the heated air, and once they've germinated, you can move them to an upper shelf and use your bottom shelf again for another set of new seeds.
So proud of you. You can do this. Next up is a high tunnel. We purchased one in November from Growers Solution. Black Friday sale they offered free freight shipping which saved hundreds of dollars.
One of the things that I struggle with is starting seeds. Most of the time theyend up being a little leggy or I baby them and they die but I keep starting them from seeds and changing little things each time. Eventually I will get it right. Keep at it, you will get it.
Rachel. I had the EXACT same set up the first year I started my own seeds. I've been hooked and rocking with it ever since. I didn't have chains or anything to lower my lights so I just elevated my trays. I used old boxes, upside down bowls or anything that would raise the trays to the light. I didn't have heat mats....I still don't. Mine germinated just fine. As they got bigger I used one of those desk fans you can get from the dollar store that clips to the side of your desk. Everyday I would just clip it to a different level and let it strengthen those stems. I sprinkled cinnamon over my cells at the very beginning to prevent fungus gnats from taking over. Good luck! You will be great at this!
That is cute, and I love the signs. The only thing I can think of is you may have to rotate the trays so the ones on the bottom don't get to hot. I have never used heat mats but I do keep the light close to the trays to get the seeds started. Then keep moving them up as the plants grow. I am enjoying watching you start your plants. Let the games begin.
Rachel, I started seeds indoors the first time this year. I started some peppers (zone 8b). They say peppers can try the patience, but I have about 95% germination! I feel pretty successful. Hopefully I can get the seedlings to grow out and harden off. Kinda cool we both started this year. Wishing you much success.
That looks great! My system was very simple and inexpensive last year. I mixed potting soil, peat, pearlite, mushroom compost and blood meal, soaked it good and made soil blocks with anything I could use like a cookie cutter. I wanted the roots to air prune so I put the soil blocks in plastic soda bottle trays. They mostly need heat first so the trays went on the top of the fridge with a cookie sheet under until they germinated and had enough leaf to need light. After that I put them all outside any day temps were above 50 degrees.Worked great!
You two work together so well! True love of each other and what you love to do! I've never used a greenhouse in my house, would love to try one someday!
If I were you putting in in a living area I would put a drip container under it. Personally have mine in my garage. I only use heat mats on peppers and other cold sensitive things. I only have 2 so only 2 trays are used w heat mats. I actually looked for regular led lights that had the proper lumens and Kelvin and purchased them as they were much less expensive so far so good. If I were using the lights for long term indoor growing I would invest in real grow lights but for seed starting these are working.
Such wonderful advice in the comments. I have always sown directly so I have no clue. It's a super cute set up though and very cost effective. You got this Rachel. Todd is so helpful and supportive. You guys rock!
I'm excited to see all your seedling babies soon! I used almost the same greenhouse that you have for 10 years (replaced the cover one time) and it served me well... I just purchased a 4 x 6 foot greenhouse to start my seeds in this year in our new home garden space! Can't wait... 😍💕😍
You are going to do great. That is an awesome set up. I have been doing it for years. You will become addicted to growing things, and you won't go back. I have the same sprayer, works great. My only advice if things get leggy, prop something under the trays to raise them closer to the light.
I have nothing but confidence for you. Next year, buy the heatmats.. I didn't get those for a few years and my seeds were fine. They're helpful though. I use a little fan to keep my seedlings moving, which makes the stems stronger. Again, I didn't do it until a few years ago and they were fine without. After you plant your seeds, add some fine vermiculite to help with damping off. The moist heat you'll be using from being over your heater and the humidity domes from your seed starters, may make them stay too damp and you don't want fungus. If you're pleased with how this is this year, just think of how many different varieties you can grow because you can order whatever seeds you want instead of only buying whatever big box stores have. Good luck Rachael.. I can't wait to see how successful you are. I bet you will be.
First of all I think your going to be amazed at how well you are at starting your own seeds! Second, I like the stand that those lights have but your gonna need the trays closer to them. My suggestion is to put something under the trays to move them closer. Empty flat boxes would work. Third, My husband Todd suggest that your Todd check the power cord to make sure it’s not getting hot. I’m excited for you! I start my own seeds and I’m amazed that I actually get plants out of them. lol
You will definitely need heat to start peppers. Last year, I used an old heating pad wrapped in a towel and placed under my starts and it worked great! Give it a shot if you have one laying around that you are not using.
Thank you for giving this a try and sharing the experience with us. I'm starting seeds for the first time myself this year. Worst case I'll kill things off. So far things are going well. Can't wait to see how things work for you. I don't have heat mats and everything is starting just fine for me.
You can do it! I do it in my apartment and sell beautiful tomato starts and grow for my garden! This is my second year doing it and it's super easy and fun!
I have been starting seeds for over 35 years. You don’t need heat from the vent during the growing stage, in fact it may be too hot for the seedlings. Plants will grow just fine at normal house temperatures, and you don’t need to worry about a heating mat. Humidity inside the plastic might be a bigger problem for damping off of your seedling after they sprout. The fan is a good idea to keep the air moving and to strengthen your plants. You can sprout your seed trays anywhere, they don’t need to be under the lights until they sprout. I agree with everyone who suggests that you protect your flooring. It’s messy no matter how careful you are. You can completely do this, it’s so easy. Change things if they aren’t working, move the whole thing if it dries out too fast. My biggest tip is that I don’t start anything in those 72 trays. I start in solo cups, then prick out and plant into the 72s. That way I have every plug with a good sized strong plant. The solo cups take less space until you need to move the seedlings. I wait until the plant has one or two sets of true leaves. Use a pencil, tease the plants apart, punch a hole in your soil in your 72s and away you go.
I remember hearing something 50 years ago about sterilizing soil.... to put it in a cooking tray and bake it.... sounds easy peasy. The high temperature will kill anything in the soil. Maybe give that a try at some point. Love you guys. Thank you for being honest with what you don't know but are willing to try. We all learn from our mistakes. Went down a rabbit hole last night after your last video looking up a "suvee" cooker! lol I spent 2 hours researching it after a figured out the right spelling and then looking up your cornbread recipe and ended up with your cinnamon rolls!!
Yay!! Last year i successfully grew tomatoes & cucumbers from seed (without heat mats!), so this year I'm trying to do it all from seed! I got a vivosun 2 pk heat mats on Amazon for $24 this year and they work fine. Best of luck! 🍀🌸
You two are such a cute couple. You can tell he really loves you and will do just about anything for you! I’m a newer viewer after learning about your channel from Canuary. Been hooked ever since. Good luck on your set up!
I love the idea of putting that IN the house! I had one outside years ago it blew over in the wind. I've learned a lot since then. It's a process. Don't give up! You'll learn something new each year 😊
I was going to tell you to watch Sarah and Kevin also. They are amazing. I watch both of you all the time. You are both so inspiring especially for canning for me. God belss
Brassica's don't need heat they will pop right up ,you will do great ! I so excited for you ,you are going to love seeing them pop through and it's very exciting and addictive ! I used crafting wire to attach lights ,same stuff I use in the garden . I think if you put cabbage up top away from heat vent and peppers lower better off ,I don't think you want to forget to water they are going to dry out fast being over vent . The sprayer is fantastic I have one and love it . I have a addiction to growing seeds and buying seeds . Brassica's will go leggy on you don't fret ,it's just because they don't like the warm .60/65 is ideal for growing but the germantion take's place in warmer soil ,I would think it's perfect for starting seeds over the vent but will not be good once they are up and running , might be to hot . You will be able to tell weird things start to pop up on leaves when they are to hot or to wet .
A good place to watch for supplies is Menards in Taylor. They have a lot of seed starting trays, soil, heat mats, fertilizer, and seed packets for as low as 60 cents. I purchased a good portion of my supplies from there.
Cute set up! You will have much fun checking on them every day. You prob won't need a heat mat. I remove my mat once the seeds germinate anyway. I surround my shelving unit with those silver emergency blankets. Helps to keep the heat in, provides reflected light and blocks the lights on the outside In Mich, I don't start my pepper seeds til late March unless you have a greenhouse to transfer the seedlings to. I'm excited for you!
If it gets too warm you can always put a magnetic vent cover over the vent and adjust it to where the correct amount of heat is coming up. Also, I have the exact same lights and when I start my seeds I put the tray on top of books or boxes whatever works to raise the tray up to the light and lower the tray as you need it...then if they get too tall put something under the lights to rais them up. Good Luck
I think the heat pads are really not necessary if you have the little greenhouse domes and you don't keep it someplace cold! I've never used them, I think they're a fad :P Also I'd recommend hanging the lights, you'll find you don't want to give up precious shelf space, but the 2 a shelf is a great idea. If you hang them you can bring them closer to the plants and ensure you don't get leggy seedlings, and lastly bottom water! Your roots will thank you
You can also put your Sweet Potatoes in there to help them sprout starts sooner. The lights should be no more than 2-3" above the seedlings. You can do 12hrs on/12hrs off; but, I prefer 16hrs on/8hrs off. A small fan will also help with the development of strong stems.
You can do it!!!!! If I can do it anyone can do it! I grew my plants from seeds last year for the first time and it was such a rewarding experience. Put the items that need a heat mat on the fridge until they sprout they don't need light until they pop through. Peppers would be the biggest one that would need the heat. Everything else should be fine depending on the temp of your house. Zip tie your shelves to the greenhouse! Otherwise they may fall off with your plant babies. You will want to lower those lights and raise them as the plants grow. Bottom watering is best. I keep my bottom tray full of water and rarely use the mister.
I have and use those same Ferry Morse lights and they work great. Been using them for a few years now. When I need to have the light closer to the trays I just put books or bricks under the trays and that gets the light closer. As the plants grow I remove the books/bricks.
Like others have said it is important to keep lights about 2" away from seedlings. I sprinkle cinnamon on top of soil after sowing seeds to help with fungus, and always bottom water. You should be good without a heat mat. I have never used one and been growing for 7 years. Good luck.
I'm only a few minutes in and I can totally relate to this experience! I too felt like the little greenhouse shelf system had a lot of pieces, and I'm a wee bit competitive lol. I can't wait to join you as you start your seeds!
The heating lines in our crawlspace are about 80degrees, I laid my pepper trays on them until I saw tiny sprouts, then brought them upstairs under the light. My peppers germinate in 5 days this way, if you have a heating vent or warm spot in your house, just put your covered pepper trays there for the first days
Rachel, just throwing this to you, I always have this nice calming feeling whenever you start your videos!!! Thanks for that!!! ❤️ Kristy in Missouri 😃🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
Be careful with your bottom tray having it over the heat. I did the same thing last year with the same greenhouse and my bottom tray scorched no matter how hard I tried to keep it watered. Otherwise have a blast it's so nice to get your fingers in the dirt in winter!!
That is the Coolest Green House Plant Starter I've seen !!! Great Work !!! Working together was Awesome too. Gives Me Some Ideas. Thank You for Sharing !!!
You could grab an outdoor thermometer at the dollar store to monitor the temp in your greenhouse if you are worried about it. I have gotten the ones at the dollar tree and it worked just fine. Thanks for the inspiration! I feel like I need a greenhouse like this in my life now LOL
Your are going to do great! This last year was my first year gardening. And I started my Brassicas from seed and they did awesome. So if this newbie did you will do more than amazing!
That is cute. My husband converted a coat closet into my little green house. During the winter I grow lettice. This year I have a basil plant, carrots and lettice. Next year I think I will add tomato plants. He built a shelf in the middle. I have been only using the the shelf, but next year I think I will get more lights for the bottom area to grow tomato plants. With the doors it keeps it warm enough in there even though we keep the house temp lower than what you want in a green house. It is so much fun. Then when it is time to start seeds, I have plenty of room.
I love your setup and wish you luck! I have noticed that Todd seems more comfortable in front of the camera lately :) I have read a lot of comments so I don't have much to add. I like heat mats but they are expensive so as someone else commented I find regular heating pads to work well for starting seeds. Can't wait to see what happens!
Once seedlings are up to keep stems stronger I put a fan on low to give them some wind. You will probably need to take the plastic off then. Good luck with the seed starting. Once your successful you will notice a big savings & have more choices with what you grow.
I have a 4 tier like yours that I keep in my garage. I have started onions, peppers, cauliflower, beets, some herbs, purple bell vine, some zinnias, chamomile, and candy tuft. I am working on tomatoes, more peppers, and some more flowers. This is my first year with a greenhouse but man I works so much better than starting on shelfs in my sunroom. I think you will have better luck than you think. Happy planting...
Don't sell yourself short. You have had some very good successes in your garden. Your challenge to yourself to learn new things is a good one. Growing your own transplants is so rewarding!
You guys are awesome! When Todd looks at you, his eyes “smile!” Looks at you lovingly. It is refreshing...
Saw this too 💕
he's very very lucky!
After the seeds germinate take the plastic tops off the cells so you don’t get moldy cells. Also bottom water every three days or so and avoid spraying water on the babies that come up so you can avoid disease!
I use Thieves Home Cleaner to keep my fungus at bay
Glad I read this comment. I’ve been spritzing my seedlings! I don’t know why I thought that was a good idea since I know you don’t want to spray your plants when they are outside
I have learned so much from your channel and one thing that always sticks out to me is how supportive your husband is. That’s so nice to see you both work and plan together.
i don't use heat mats when starting seeds indoors, we keep the house around 70 and everything germinates just fine
I don’t use them either and have never had problem with germination. I start my indoors, too.
Adding a fan to your set up will ensure stronger plant stems, especially with tomatoes, as the seedlings get a bit older.
suggestion, use the chains. You want the lights close when they are first starting. over the register.....I would rotate the trays top to bottom. That heat will make them dry out quickly. I have shelves in a room in the basement, my grow room. I double the shelves and lights for this season. I have over 100 starts of cabbage, broccoli, brussel sprouts and collards. Love starting seeds!!!!!!! You'll do good.
Check this out for sure, but I always start my lights off very close to my tray and raise slowly as they grow.
Yes, me too. Each light system has a certain distance to keep from plants.
When Todd turned the lights on for the first time, your reaction was like turning the lights on the Christmas tree for the first time. It made me smile. I am seed starting also for the first time this year. My husband and daughter are both the same type personality that doesn’t like to do anything their not good at and are very competitive. We embrace it and enjoy the “contests” it has set off thru the years. Lol We have the luxury of trying our seeds in private while you have chosen to take us along with you on your journey.I truly wish you every success and joy!!👩🌾❤️
Peppers like heat. I would use bottom shelf for anything with the higher heat needed for germination and the top for your cooler weather plants. If you feel like its getting to warm put a temp gage at bottom and top so you have an idea with door open and door closed. Have fun planting❤
Love your two little helpers!
Oh my goodness Rachel, you said exactly how I feel. I am intimidated and think I won't be good at it so I stay away from doing things. I'm just now, at 55, overcoming my fear of working with yeast ~ 🤦! I've been inspired by you and several other YT ladies on bread making so I've been able to make our own for the last several weeks. Now I'm trying to over come my huge fear of pressure canning. I was raised on water bath canning and that's the only way I have ever canned but if I will pressure can, the sky's the limit! Thank you both for your inspiration ~ God's using you and Todd in wonderful ways! 🙏💞
Hi. Rachel. I just love seeing you and Todd together. I love your little green house. I also know it is going to work. God Bless the two of you. Take care, and have fun. See you in next video. Maria. ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
Thanks
Wow that is a pretty nice set up to start seeds. I've been wondering how I could do it in the house without upsetting my uncooperative husband. Todd is a gem!!
Dining room table works, south facing window for sunlight and use what you've got for pots. Old egg cartons work for germination, then you can move up to solo cups, etc. Just be sure to have plenty of drainage holes.
In some cases it's easier to start seeds indoors because you can control the amount of light and water they get. You got this Rachel!
I’m so glad you put boiling water over your seed starting mix! Dealing with fungus gnats is almost impossible.
If you want to start peppers, you should start them now. I germinate mine using the paper towel in a plastic bag method and place them on my water heater to germinate. I don’t have any heat mats and it works fine.
There's so much good information in these posts! I haven't seen it mentioned that cinnamon will help control any fungus that grows on the soil surface. Research "damping off" disease. It's easy to control by watering from beneath and ground cinnamon sprinkled on the soil surface helps a lot.
I need a Racheal in my life. And I need a Todd by my side. You are both precious and endearing. So happy you gave yourself a chance to succeed by starting seeds. You will have success and lesson your self doubts. You make such a difference for so many. Give yourself some love. Thanks for sharing so much with such heartfelt vulnerability. Wish we were neighbors.
Step one-I recommend you put a tarp or the like under your planting unit as stray soil and water will wreak havoc on wood flooring and carpets. Also, keep an eye on the amount of heat coming out of that vent directly on your flats. If it's too much it could damage your seedlings. I don't mean to be a debbie downer, Rachel, just honest in what I see and what I teach. I prefer for you to succeed.
One thing I learned from living traditions is to layer compost in the bottom of your little pots and top off about the last 3d of the pot with seed starting mix, so it's got food after germination.
Best rootballs on my starts last year after learning that!
Yeah, that’s a great tip, I forgot about them saying that!
I would lower the lights. Then you can raise them as they grow.
Please do not doubt yourself! You, in no way, can fail. You inspire all of us. Maybe set a little reminder on your phone to check your greenhouse??
Add carpet and wood floor protection from spills and excessive humidity.
I even told you to do that. You don't need a south window to do it. I don't have one and start my seeds inside every year. I don't even have a grow light or heat pads. You got this, girl! Don't be afraid.
I highly HIGHLY recommend starting with the light inches above the tray. One day too long and they will get leggy. Good luck guys!!!
You will do fine. Just remember to keep the lights down very close to the seed bed so your plants don't get leggy and raise them as the seedlings grow. Add a fan on low to strengthen them once they emerge. I start mine with regular shop lights in our unheated basement where the temperature is steady around 60 degrees (for brassica and lettuce etc) and they just all sprouted. Been doing it that way for years. You will need warmer environment for peppers,, tomatoes etc. I found tomatoes sprout best in warm, dark room. Happiness!
I start most of my seeds in old mushroom containers. Once they get their true leaves I transplant them into the larger cells. The reason for this is so I can pick out the strongest transplants. This will help assure that you have a full flat of healthy plants. This saves on space and soil as well. I have onion seeds and head lettuce started and ready to up pot. I am in NE ohio on the PA boarder. Start your lettuce and kales right now too! I have been growing lettuce in my greenhouse since October! It's all trial and error! Good luck and God Bless!
I have been doing this 40 years...all different ways !! ,YOU will do GREAT !! I see many great suggestions here, only one I would add is I always sprinkle a bit of peat moss over the top of the soil as soon as they sprout to keep "damping off" from killing seedlings...that has been 100% effective for me. You have them right there to keep an eye on them to adjust water/ heat/ light quickly if there are any problems , we live only a few miles from Jerome Market and have animals processed there too, so we are in same growing zone , I enjoy watching you even tho I have been gardening 46 years , new ideas !!
I started all of my seeds last year in a east facing window with a small bit of southern exposure. Not lights no heat mats. Tomatoes, cucumbers had no idea what I was doing end up planting 30 tomatoes outside and the cucumbers And gave away about that many plants as well. Probably the biggest thing I did for success was I created mini green houses using the clear plastic container that my salad came in from the grocery store. I am in Northern Oakland county. You will be successful Rachel.
I also follow Kevin & Sarah for 3 or 4 years now, love their new seed house
What a great idea Rachel to have it front and center as you said....it will be so fun to see you seeds sprouting.
I’m germinating my own seeds for the first time too. I’m super nervous and can relate- I’m nervous because I’m worried I will fail. I’ve been researching via TH-cam and online resources for months! Super scary. Good luck!
I have a similar grow set up. I also have the same lights as well as some kingbo lights. I rotate my trays around the shelves giving them a different light each day once they germinate. I have a designated space for mine and it never gets taken down. Love that you are taking the plunge into seed starting. For me, it really gives a special sense of pride and satisfaction when you finally eat or preserve the fruits of that labor.
We began gardening and seed starting inside for first time last year..we did not use heat pads and had fantastic success with tomatoes, peppers, squash, cucumbers and watermelons. We had seeds all over the dining room table. You have this.
With the dollar store trays, they are typically very thin plastic and might break/crack and let water out when you start bottom watering your plants. Keep an eye out for it.
I agree. I did end up going to Menards to grab a few of the no hole 10 by 21(I think that's what they are called) for $1.25 each. Totally helped with water control and messes.
Good for you! Seed starting is really not hard, just requires time, care and a lot of attention! You can do this, girl!!
Rachel, you shouldn't need heat mats for your cole crops (broccoli, cauliflower, kale, brussel sprouts, kohlrabi, lettuce.) You may want to invest in a heat mat for your tomatoes and peppers and definitely ginger. I did not use the plastic cover once they are germinated because too much humidity can cause mold. If you sprinkle cinnamon on the soil, it will help stop mold growth. You should have the lights as close to the trays as possible to avoid leggy plants. You can't really do anything to correct them after becoming leggy unless they are tomatoes. Gary Pilarchik (The Rusted Garden) is definitely the one to watch for seed starting on youtube. Good Luck, I am sure you will have great success. 💕😊Francine
Personally, I’d take the plastic off and just use the shelves. Especially if it’s over a heat vent.
Your fur babies are so cute 😍. I love 💘 the way you guys love each other. Awesome little greenhouse. You go girl!
I have similar greenhouses and never even thought to bring them inside! They're very prone to blowing over outside, so I think your use of them makes much more sense.
You can do this Rachael!!! I have this exact same little greenhouse and have started many seeds in it. You will be amazed at how much it can hold. 🍅🫑🍆🥬
Tip: I zip tied my lights on the cross bars and just placed wooden blocks under the trays to raise them closer to the light when needed.
I have that greenhouse. I've used it for 10 years now. I had to zip tie those shelves down. And it works GREAT!
Last year I started all my garden from seed for the first time. I had a very basic set up...wire shelves and grow lights (no heat mats). I placed the shelves over a heat register just like your planning to do. Worked like a charm!!! The soil temperature is actually more crucial for germination than the ambient temperature. One suggestion: Start your seeds on the bottom shelf where the soil can be warmed by the heated air, and once they've germinated, you can move them to an upper shelf and use your bottom shelf again for another set of new seeds.
You are going to do great! You will make mistakes, but thats how you learn. Been starting seeds for 5 years now, and I am still learning.😊
Good luck!
So proud of you. You can do this. Next up is a high tunnel. We purchased one in November from Growers Solution. Black Friday sale they offered free freight shipping which saved hundreds of dollars.
One of the things that I struggle with is starting seeds. Most of the time theyend up being a little leggy or I baby them and they die but I keep starting them from seeds and changing little things each time. Eventually I will get it right. Keep at it, you will get it.
I'm so proud for you 😍 You are going to love seeing your little baby seedings grow. Be sure and take the dome lids off after they germanate. Enjoy ☺️
Rachel. I had the EXACT same set up the first year I started my own seeds. I've been hooked and rocking with it ever since. I didn't have chains or anything to lower my lights so I just elevated my trays. I used old boxes, upside down bowls or anything that would raise the trays to the light. I didn't have heat mats....I still don't. Mine germinated just fine. As they got bigger I used one of those desk fans you can get from the dollar store that clips to the side of your desk. Everyday I would just clip it to a different level and let it strengthen those stems. I sprinkled cinnamon over my cells at the very beginning to prevent fungus gnats from taking over. Good luck! You will be great at this!
That is cute, and I love the signs. The only thing I can think of is you may have to rotate the trays so the ones on the bottom don't get to hot. I have never used heat mats but I do keep the light close to the trays to get the seeds started. Then keep moving them up as the plants grow. I am enjoying watching you start your plants. Let the games begin.
Rachel, I started seeds indoors the first time this year. I started some peppers (zone 8b). They say peppers can try the patience, but I have about 95% germination! I feel pretty successful. Hopefully I can get the seedlings to grow out and harden off. Kinda cool we both started this year. Wishing you much success.
That looks great! My system was very simple and inexpensive last year. I mixed potting soil, peat, pearlite, mushroom compost and blood meal, soaked it good and made soil blocks with anything I could use like a cookie cutter. I wanted the roots to air prune so I put the soil blocks in plastic soda bottle trays. They mostly need heat first so the trays went on the top of the fridge with a cookie sheet under until they germinated and had enough leaf to need light. After that I put them all outside any day temps were above 50 degrees.Worked great!
You two work together so well! True love of each other and what you love to do! I've never used a greenhouse in my house, would love to try one someday!
You’ll be fine without heat mats. Keep it in a warm room and cover the trays to prevent drying.
If I were you putting in in a living area I would put a drip container under it. Personally have mine in my garage. I only use heat mats on peppers and other cold sensitive things. I only have 2 so only 2 trays are used w heat mats. I actually looked for regular led lights that had the proper lumens and Kelvin and purchased them as they were much less expensive so far so good. If I were using the lights for long term indoor growing I would invest in real grow lights but for seed starting these are working.
Such wonderful advice in the comments. I have always sown directly so I have no clue. It's a super cute set up though and very cost effective. You got this Rachel. Todd is so helpful and supportive. You guys rock!
I'm excited to see all your seedling babies soon! I used almost the same greenhouse that you have for 10 years (replaced the cover one time) and it served me well...
I just purchased a 4 x 6 foot greenhouse to start my seeds in this year in our new home garden space! Can't wait... 😍💕😍
You've got this! Even if it doesn't work as you hope you will have still learned something. You can only fail if you don't try at all.
You are going to do great. That is an awesome set up. I have been doing it for years. You will become addicted to growing things, and you won't go back. I have the same sprayer, works great. My only advice if things get leggy, prop something under the trays to raise them closer to the light.
I have nothing but confidence for you. Next year, buy the heatmats.. I didn't get those for a few years and my seeds were fine. They're helpful though. I use a little fan to keep my seedlings moving, which makes the stems stronger. Again, I didn't do it until a few years ago and they were fine without. After you plant your seeds, add some fine vermiculite to help with damping off. The moist heat you'll be using from being over your heater and the humidity domes from your seed starters, may make them stay too damp and you don't want fungus. If you're pleased with how this is this year, just think of how many different varieties you can grow because you can order whatever seeds you want instead of only buying whatever big box stores have. Good luck Rachael.. I can't wait to see how successful you are. I bet you will be.
First of all I think your going to be amazed at how well you are at starting your own seeds! Second, I like the stand that those lights have but your gonna need the trays closer to them. My suggestion is to put something under the trays to move them closer. Empty flat boxes would work. Third, My husband Todd suggest that your Todd check the power cord to make sure it’s not getting hot. I’m excited for you! I start my own seeds and I’m amazed that I actually get plants out of them. lol
You will definitely need heat to start peppers. Last year, I used an old heating pad wrapped in a towel and placed under my starts and it worked great! Give it a shot if you have one laying around that you are not using.
I've heard that before. How many hours do you run the heating pad?
I started my peppers without heat, but my house is probably 72*.
Thank you for giving this a try and sharing the experience with us. I'm starting seeds for the first time myself this year. Worst case I'll kill things off. So far things are going well. Can't wait to see how things work for you. I don't have heat mats and everything is starting just fine for me.
You can do it! I do it in my apartment and sell beautiful tomato starts and grow for my garden! This is my second year doing it and it's super easy and fun!
I have been starting seeds for over 35 years. You don’t need heat from the vent during the growing stage, in fact it may be too hot for the seedlings. Plants will grow just fine at normal house temperatures, and you don’t need to worry about a heating mat. Humidity inside the plastic might be a bigger problem for damping off of your seedling after they sprout. The fan is a good idea to keep the air moving and to strengthen your plants. You can sprout your seed trays anywhere, they don’t need to be under the lights until they sprout. I agree with everyone who suggests that you protect your flooring. It’s messy no matter how careful you are. You can completely do this, it’s so easy. Change things if they aren’t working, move the whole thing if it dries out too fast.
My biggest tip is that I don’t start anything in those 72 trays. I start in solo cups, then prick out and plant into the 72s. That way I have every plug with a good sized strong plant. The solo cups take less space until you need to move the seedlings. I wait until the plant has one or two sets of true leaves. Use a pencil, tease the plants apart, punch a hole in your soil in your 72s and away you go.
I remember hearing something 50 years ago about sterilizing soil.... to put it in a cooking tray and bake it.... sounds easy peasy. The high temperature will kill anything in the soil. Maybe give that a try at some point. Love you guys. Thank you for being honest with what you don't know but are willing to try. We all learn from our mistakes. Went down a rabbit hole last night after your last video looking up a "suvee" cooker! lol I spent 2 hours researching it after a figured out the right spelling and then looking up your cornbread recipe and ended up with your cinnamon rolls!!
Yeah, I was wondering what the “suvee” cooker was too. Looked just like a plastic box on the counter!
Yay!! Last year i successfully grew tomatoes & cucumbers from seed (without heat mats!), so this year I'm trying to do it all from seed! I got a vivosun 2 pk heat mats on Amazon for $24 this year and they work fine. Best of luck! 🍀🌸
You two are such a cute couple. You can tell he really loves you and will do just about anything for you! I’m a newer viewer after learning about your channel from Canuary. Been hooked ever since. Good luck on your set up!
Thank you so much!!
Oh my goodness, that looks like putting the Mouse Trap Game together 😂🤣
I love the idea of putting that IN the house! I had one outside years ago it blew over in the wind. I've learned a lot since then. It's a process. Don't give up! You'll learn something new each year 😊
I was going to tell you to watch Sarah and Kevin also. They are amazing. I watch both of you all the time. You are both so inspiring especially for canning for me. God belss
Brassica's don't need heat they will pop right up ,you will do great ! I so excited for you ,you are going to love seeing them pop through and it's very exciting and addictive !
I used crafting wire to attach lights ,same stuff I use in the garden . I think if you put cabbage up top away from heat vent and peppers lower better off ,I don't think you want to forget to water they are going to dry out fast being over vent . The sprayer is fantastic I have one and love it . I have a addiction to growing seeds and buying seeds . Brassica's will go leggy on you don't fret ,it's just because they don't like the warm .60/65 is ideal for growing but the germantion take's place in warmer soil ,I would think it's perfect for starting seeds over the vent but will not be good once they are up and running , might be to hot . You will be able to tell weird things start to pop up on leaves when they are to hot or to wet .
A good place to watch for supplies is Menards in Taylor. They have a lot of seed starting trays, soil, heat mats, fertilizer, and seed packets for as low as 60 cents. I purchased a good portion of my supplies from there.
Cute set up! You will have much fun checking on them every day. You prob won't need a heat mat. I remove my mat once the seeds germinate anyway. I surround my shelving unit with those silver emergency blankets. Helps to keep the heat in, provides reflected light and blocks the lights on the outside In Mich, I don't start my pepper seeds til late March unless you have a greenhouse to transfer the seedlings to. I'm excited for you!
Starting all my seeds in Promix potting mix has been a game changer. It helps the seedlings develop an amazing root system.
If it gets too warm you can always put a magnetic vent cover over the vent and adjust it to where the correct amount of heat is coming up. Also, I have the exact same lights and when I start my seeds I put the tray on top of books or boxes whatever works to raise the tray up to the light and lower the tray as you need it...then if they get too tall put something under the lights to rais them up. Good Luck
I think the heat pads are really not necessary if you have the little greenhouse domes and you don't keep it someplace cold! I've never used them, I think they're a fad :P Also I'd recommend hanging the lights, you'll find you don't want to give up precious shelf space, but the 2 a shelf is a great idea. If you hang them you can bring them closer to the plants and ensure you don't get leggy seedlings, and lastly bottom water! Your roots will thank you
You can also put your Sweet Potatoes in there to help them sprout starts sooner. The lights should be no more than 2-3" above the seedlings. You can do 12hrs on/12hrs off; but, I prefer 16hrs on/8hrs off. A small fan will also help with the development of strong stems.
You can do it!!!!! If I can do it anyone can do it! I grew my plants from seeds last year for the first time and it was such a rewarding experience. Put the items that need a heat mat on the fridge until they sprout they don't need light until they pop through. Peppers would be the biggest one that would need the heat. Everything else should be fine depending on the temp of your house. Zip tie your shelves to the greenhouse! Otherwise they may fall off with your plant babies. You will want to lower those lights and raise them as the plants grow. Bottom watering is best. I keep my bottom tray full of water and rarely use the mister.
I have and use those same Ferry Morse lights and they work great. Been using them for a few years now. When I need to have the light closer to the trays I just put books or bricks under the trays and that gets the light closer. As the plants grow I remove the books/bricks.
Like others have said it is important to keep lights about 2" away from seedlings. I sprinkle cinnamon on top of soil after sowing seeds to help with fungus, and always bottom water. You should be good without a heat mat. I have never used one and been growing for 7 years. Good luck.
Worm compost helps with damp off and fungus problems too if you can find it..
@@Emeraldwitch30 Oh, I didn’t know it helped with damping off. I just bought some, so will try it. Thanks!
I'm only a few minutes in and I can totally relate to this experience! I too felt like the little greenhouse shelf system had a lot of pieces, and I'm a wee bit competitive lol. I can't wait to join you as you start your seeds!
The heating lines in our crawlspace are about 80degrees, I laid my pepper trays on them until I saw tiny sprouts, then brought them upstairs under the light. My peppers germinate in 5 days this way, if you have a heating vent or warm spot in your house, just put your covered pepper trays there for the first days
Last year was my first year doing seeds. I totally understand your nervousness! You will do amazing! Can't wait to watch your journey with this!
Rachel, just throwing this to you, I always have this nice calming feeling whenever you start your videos!!! Thanks for that!!! ❤️ Kristy in Missouri 😃🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
Sure glad Todd was there to. Put that thing together for you 😂. Looks awesome. Can’t wait to see how his works out. Good luck.
I have a similar greenhouse and it worked great. I loved it also for drying my onions and garlic after I dug them up.
You are gonna love those Lights!! I grew seeds for the 1st time last year. Love ❤️ them!
That looks like a very good set-up. I think you'll do great with it.
Be careful with your bottom tray having it over the heat. I did the same thing last year with the same greenhouse and my bottom tray scorched no matter how hard I tried to keep it watered. Otherwise have a blast it's so nice to get your fingers in the dirt in winter!!
I use chains to hang my lights. Makes it easy to adjust the height as the plants grow.
That is the Coolest Green House Plant Starter I've seen !!! Great Work !!! Working together was Awesome too.
Gives Me Some Ideas.
Thank You for Sharing !!!
I have two of those green houses. I use them indoors. I have used them for three years. I love them.
You could grab an outdoor thermometer at the dollar store to monitor the temp in your greenhouse if you are worried about it. I have gotten the ones at the dollar tree and it worked just fine. Thanks for the inspiration! I feel like I need a greenhouse like this in my life now LOL
Your are going to do great! This last year was my first year gardening. And I started my Brassicas from seed and they did awesome. So if this newbie did you will do more than amazing!
I germinated my peppers in my big foam egg incubator this year. Worked like a charm & I didn't even have to buy the heat mats I was planning to.
Oh cool
Happy growing neighbors ❤️🌱🙏🏻
That is cute. My husband converted a coat closet into my little green house. During the winter I grow lettice. This year I have a basil plant, carrots and lettice. Next year I think I will add tomato plants. He built a shelf in the middle. I have been only using the the shelf, but next year I think I will get more lights for the bottom area to grow tomato plants. With the doors it keeps it warm enough in there even though we keep the house temp lower than what you want in a green house. It is so much fun. Then when it is time to start seeds, I have plenty of room.
That sounds awesome
I love your setup and wish you luck! I have noticed that Todd seems more comfortable in front of the camera lately :) I have read a lot of comments so I don't have much to add. I like heat mats but they are expensive so as someone else commented I find regular heating pads to work well for starting seeds. Can't wait to see what happens!
Once seedlings are up to keep stems stronger I put a fan on low to give them some wind. You will probably need to take the plastic off then. Good luck with the seed starting. Once your successful you will notice a big savings & have more choices with what you grow.
I have a 4 tier like yours that I keep in my garage. I have started onions, peppers, cauliflower, beets, some herbs, purple bell vine, some zinnias, chamomile, and candy tuft. I am working on tomatoes, more peppers, and some more flowers. This is my first year with a greenhouse but man I works so much better than starting on shelfs in my sunroom. I think you will have better luck than you think. Happy planting...