Seed Starter Kits and Packages Buying Guide: Everything You Need To Know
Are you ready to start your own garden but find yourself a bit overwhelmed by all the options? You can purchase seed starter kits and packages that are tailored for beginners or experienced gardeners depending on what type of plants you wish to grow. Seed starter kits and packages provide everything you need from planting supplies, soil, fertilizer, seeds, to instructions for setting up and maintaining your garden. This guide will help you navigate through all the available products so that you can make an informed decision when purchasing a seed starter kit or package.
What is in a seed starter kit?
A standard seed starter kit contains soil (sometimes pre-fertilized), containers, labels, and tools, such as a trowel or watering can. In addition, many kits come with instructions on how to successfully germinate and grow your seeds. Some kits might also include starter plants, fertilizer, and other accessories depending on the type of garden you’re planning.
What is the difference between a seed starter kit and package?
A seed starter kit is designed for those just starting out in gardening while a seed starter package is intended for more experienced gardeners who want to jump straight into sowing their seeds without having to buy all the supplies separately. Seed starter packages generally contain larger amounts of soil, fertilizer, seeds, tools and accessories than what’s found in most starter kits.
What type of plants can I grow with a seed starter kit?
Most kits will be tailored to the type of plant you’re growing, such as flowers, vegetables, or herbs. Some include seeds specifically designed for indoors while some are designed for outdoors. Make sure to read the description of what is included in the kit before purchasing so that you know exactly what you’ll get and which types of plants it is designed for.
Do I need special equipment or soil when using a seed starter kit?
No, many kits come pre-packaged with everything you need including containers, soil, labels, and tools to get your garden started. However, it might be beneficial to add on additional supplies, such as fertilizer or a grow light, depending on the type of plants you’re growing.
How do I know which size kit is best for me?
If you are a beginner gardener, it’s recommended that you start with a smaller seed starter kit that contains enough soil and accessories to get your garden going while still being easy to manage and maintain. For more experienced gardeners, larger kits may be beneficial as they usually contain larger amounts of soil, seeds, tools and accessories.
What type of containers can I use when starting my seedlings?
Most starter kits come with their own containers made from biodegradable materials such as peat pellets or coco coir discs. However, if you don’t want to use these containers, you can opt for plastic trays or even egg cartons as they are cost-effective solutions. Just make sure the container is deep enough and has holes at the bottom for drainage.
How much soil should I use when planting my seeds?
The amount of soil needed will depend on the type of plant you are growing and the size of your container. Generally speaking, most seed starter kits come with enough soil to fill a large pot or tray but it is best to double check before filling it up completely so that your plants have enough space to grow.
What type of fertilizer should I use for my seedlings?
Most starter kits come with a small amount of fertilizer, but it is best to check the instructions to make sure it meets the requirements of your plants. If not, you can opt for a fertilizer that is specifically designed for seedlings such as an organic liquid fertilizer or one with added micronutrients.
How often should I water my seedlings?
The amount of watering needed will vary between species and environmental conditions. As a rule of thumb, you should aim to keep the top inch or two of soil moist but not drenched. Make sure to check your seeds daily and water them when they look dry since over-watering can be just as bad as under-watering.
How much light do seedlings need?
This will depend on the type of plants you’re growing and where they are being grown. Most starter kits come with a grow light that can be used to supplement natural sunlight when necessary. However, if your plants are in an area with plenty of indirect sunlight, you may not need to use a grow light at all. Make sure to check the instructions for each plant before making any decisions about how much light is needed.
Starting a garden from scratch can be difficult but using a seed starter kit can help make the process easier. With the right supplies, soil, and knowledge you can easily get your garden up and running in no time! Be sure to read the instructions carefully before purchasing so that you know exactly what you need for success. Happy planting!