What's the best way to start seed germination indoors?

I've read of so many different ways (peat pellets, mini greenhouses, seedling mix, peat pots, etc.) that I'm wondering what has worked best for other people? (I tried peat pellets last year in a plastic greenhouse, but constantly had to combat mold and dry tops.) I also know that some plants don't like to have their roots disturbed, so I'm looking for a good way to prep these seedlings for transplatation, too. In case it helps, here are the things I'm planning to start indoors: Better Boy hybrid tomatoes, Burpee Super Sweet 100 hybrid cherry tomatoes, marigolds, delphinium, shasta daisies, sweet peas, forget-me-nots, carnations, dwarf dalias, and strawflowers. Thanks to everyone who reads and responds!!! :o)

What's the best way to start seed germination indoors?
If you begin sowing your seeds when the temperatures match those required for germination then you shouldn't have too much of a problem with your list.


The reason you had mold and dry tops last year was due to 3 possible causes-first lack of airflow around your seedlings ,second a poor compost mix which was too prone to drying out and third overwatering.


You need to get a compost which is water retentive and you need to water little and often-not the other way around.


When watering your seed trays/pots use a hand-held spray and effectively mist the soil surface allowing just enough water to reach down into the seeds/roots.Cover with clingfilm until the seedlings have emerged and keep seedlings in good light but out of direct sunlight.


Your list doesn't include anything too difficult .Germination levels will depend on the quality of seeds and all of these will pot up transplant very readily without the need for peat pots.


(I don't know about strawflowers-they're new to me)


Forget me nots-once you have them will self seed one year to the next and you'll never get rid of them.Your tomatoes once they show a couple of 'true' leaves (over and above the 2 small germination leaves) can go 3 seedlings to a 4-6 inch pot and then when they've outgrown this can be planted into final position.


Sweet peas sow three seeds to a 4-6 inch pot and when 6 inches high plant out to final spot and when 12-18 inches (unless dwarf variety) pinch out leading tip for development of side shoots and more flowers.Essentially follow above and instructions on packets .
Reply:Hi,


Take a visit our to this site, you'll have a GREAT time.





http://forums.gardenweb.com/forums/propi...





Hope this helps,


Dave
Reply:I think the disc shaped peat pellets with the mini greenhouse by Jiffy works the best until they start to grown and then move them to the outdoor garden after 2-3 weeks.





I also used miracle gro quick start solution.