January is the time to start seeds inside if you want a decent sized plant for spring planting in the garden. I know the seed packets usually say 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost but that is not nearly soon enough.
I have an inexpensive system that works well for me. I'm not fond of the bio degradable pots because they rob all the moisture from the soil making it difficult to keep the seedlings moist but that was what I had left over in the shed from last year. Any container will do, just be sure to poke holes in the bottom for drainage. I simply soaked the bio degradable pots in water to moisten them good, filled them with seed starting mix, which I also moistened before planting the seeds. Seed starting mix can be difficult to moisten thoroughly. I keep adding water and stirring until it is complete wet but not soggy then Plant the seeds according to the packet and cover the pots with plastic wrap and place in a warm location. Some people actually set their seed containers on an electric blanket for warmth but I haven't tried that yet.
Once the seeds sprout, take off the plastic and use an inexpensive grow light. There is no need for fancy, expensive equipment. Keep the light close to the seedlings however so they don't get leggy and break. If the light is too far away the seedlings will "reach" for it making them long stemmed and weak. I also turn them daily so they grow straight because they lean toward the light.
Watering the small plants can be a tricky. If you water them too much they rot off at the soil level. I've tried different methods and both work well as long you don't over water them. I set my pots in a shallow container that I can add water to allowing the soil to draw from the bottom. This is probably the best method. I've also used a small spray bottle and carefully spray the soil around the plants. It is very easy to cause the plants to rot off this way so be careful not to get the soil too wet and try to keep the water off of the tender leaves. Your plants should emerge close to the germination time listed on the seed packet. This could vary depending on the temperature of their environment. If it's cooler in your home the seeds will take longer to sprout so don't get discouraged.
If you have never tried starting your seeds inside then now is the time. Its an inexpensive way to have some winter fun.
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