Buy These Seed Starter Kits Before Spring Arrives

Starting your seeds indoors has a variety of advantages. You can control the environment for more successful germination, grow plants not typically available at your local nursery, and save money, as seed packets are cheaper than purchasing germinated seedlings or plants. Best of all, no matter the outdoor conditions, you'll get a head-start on the spring season and your seedlings are ready for planting outdoors once warmer weather arrives.

Seed starting kits are the perfect solution to getting a jump start on the growing season and are ideal for beginners or those with years of growing experience. They allow you to sprout your seeds in the safety of an indoor home garden and most kits contain everything you need to get started. Whether you desire to grow microgreens, flowers, veggies, or get an early start by planting herb seeds, a seed starter kit makes germinating your seeds easy. No matter your experience, you're sure to feel like a professional grower watching your seedlings grow into thriving and healthy plants.

Below we cover what you should consider when purchasing a seed starting kit so you get the right equipment for your needs. We've also reviewed some of the best seed starter kits on the market and their features to make selecting the best one for your needs easier.

What to Consider When Purchasing and Using a Seed Starter Kit

Seed Germination Pots: Depending on the kit, there are various types of starter pots available where you plant your seeds. Choices include everything from plastic cell trays containing multiple cells, reusable pots you can clean and reuse, and biodegradable peat pots that allow you to plant the entire pot in the soil without disturbing the roots. When making a selection, consider how much space you have for indoor gardening, what you're growing and how many plants you intend on starting. Beginners should probably start with a small kit of around 12 cells until they get a feel for germinating seeds indoors.

Humidity Dome: Most seed starter kits come with humidity domes which create humidity for your developing seedlings—an important factor in the germination process. The dome is a clear plastic lid that fits over the cells or pots, allowing light to enter while creating humidity inside. Some kits have vented domes so you can regulate the amount of humidity and airflow by opening and closing them.

Ease of Use and Price: You shouldn't need a degree in horticulture to be able to successfully use your seed starter kit. The kit's instructions should be clear and easy to understand and it should be easy to use, especially if you're new to indoor seed germination. Additionally, the grow kit should be affordable, and starting your seeds should save money compared to buying plants already started. However, don't be put off by kits that are a little more expensive but are durable and allow you to reuse season after season. It won't be long before you get a return on your seed starting investment.