In the event that other wish to start some seedlings indoors and would like to see an example of how easy this can be, I thought I would take a picture of my indoor growing area.
This area is the underneath portion of my workbench in the garage and measures approximately 4’x2′. I’ve place four 1″x2″ planks across the bottom frame and it provides ample support for four well-watered growing trays. I purchased two 48″ utility lights from Lowe’s – Item #: 245536 | Model #: NXU-6000 – and two packs of bulbs for approximately $35. The hang chains are included.
Total installation time was about 20 minutes for happy growing seedlings!
Approximately three weeks ago, I turned my top hard-panned soil in the boxes designated for leaf and head lettuce and planted some seeds. Technically, I was about a month late in sowing, but both January and February are okay for these – I’ll just have to watch them if the weather heats up so I can pick them before they bolt and bitter up. Will of course leave a few for seed.
After our multiple-day rain down here in the Austin area, (thank you!) I ventured out when it wasn’t so muddy I’d track up the house. Much to my surprise, I saw happy tiny lettuce growing. Checking my chart, I confirmed the leaf lettuce had sprouted first and about two days later, the head lettuce sprouted as well.
Nummy garden salad will soon be on a plate near me!
So I was turning my composter a while back and saw something sprouting. Being the curious type, I pulled out the clump of compost to which it was attached and was surprised by a growing potato I had tossed in a few weeks ago.
I decided to plant it and see what happened and here we are, a couple weeks later with a nicely growing potato plant! I’ll keep tabs on this one until it’s time to dig it up and then tell you how they taste.
Because the temperature goes up and down throughout February, indoor seeding is a must for certain plants in order ensure a crop as early as possible. So, if you haven’t done so already, get your indoor flats prepped and seeded as quickly as possible!
Here are the items I’ve already started indoors:
Herbs – basil, chives, oregano
Vegetables and fruits – pole beans, cucumbers, melons, onions, peppers, spinach, tomatoes
