Seed Starting Calculator

Contents

Calculator

Use this seed starting calculator to determine the best time to start your crops based on your final frost date.

To find your last frost date, visit the Almanac and calculate your frost date based on your location.





Tomatoes
Peppers
Lettuce
Broccoli
Pumpkins
Cucumbers
Eggplant
Beans
Kale
Cabbage
Spinach
Cauliflower
Swiss Chard
Celery
Onions
Tomatillo
Artichoke
Leeks
Brussels Sprouts
Parsley

Want to learn more about seed starting? Get instant access to our course on seed starting or read our article: The Ultimate Guide To Starting Vegetable Seeds Indoors

Seed Starting Chart

CropWeeks to Start Before Last Frost Date
Tomatoes6-8 weeks
Peppers8-10 weeks
Lettuce4-6 weeks
Broccoli6-8 weeks
Pumpkins2-4 weeks
Cucumbers3-4 weeks
Eggplant8-10 weeks
Beans3-4 weeks
Kale6-8 weeks
Cabbage6-8 weeks
Spinach4-6 weeks
Cauliflower6-8 weeks
Swiss Chard4-6 weeks
Celery10-12 weeks
Onions8-10 weeks
Tomatillo6-8 weeks
Artichoke8-10 weeks
Leeks8-10 weeks
Brussels Sprouts6-8 weeks
Parsley6-8 weeks

This table can be used as general guideline for how early to start their seeds based on the crop you are planting. You can use this data to provide valuable advice for each type of crop.

Seed Starting Basics

Starting seeds indoors is a great way to give your plants a head start, especially for crops that need a longer growing season. The key to successful seed starting is timing. By planting your seeds at the right time, you can ensure they are strong and ready for transplanting once the weather warms up and the last frost has passed. Here’s how you can get started:

  1. Know Your Planting Zone: The first step in determining when to start your seeds indoors is knowing your planting zone, or your area’s last frost date. This date is crucial as it marks when it’s safe to move your seedlings outside. You can find your area’s last frost date based on your USDA hardiness zone or local climate data.
  2. Understand Crop Needs: Different crops need different amounts of time to grow from seed to transplant. Some plants, like tomatoes and peppers, require a longer indoor growing period, while others, like lettuce and beans, need less time. The table above shows the recommended number of weeks to start various crops indoors before your last frost date.
  3. Prepare Your Containers and Soil: Start your seeds in trays or pots filled with seed-starting mix. This mix is designed to provide the right balance of drainage and moisture retention, giving your seeds the best chance to germinate. Be sure to use clean, sterilized containers to avoid any disease issues.
  4. Provide Proper Light and Heat: Most seeds require warmth to germinate. A seedling heat mat can help maintain the optimal soil temperature. Once your seeds have germinated, they need a lot of light to grow strong. If natural sunlight is insufficient, consider using grow lights to keep your plants healthy.
  5. Transplanting: Once your seedlings are ready and the last frost has passed, it’s time to transplant them into your garden. Before doing so, “harden them off” by gradually acclimating them to outdoor conditions. This can be done by placing them outside for a few hours each day, increasing the exposure to sunlight and wind over the course of a week.

By following these steps and using our seed starting calculator, you can successfully start seeds indoors and ensure your plants are ready for transplanting when the time is right.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Get a FREE copy of the ebook: The Modern Homestead and access to our community exclusively for backyard gardeners and homesteaders.

Just straight up homesteading ideas sent directly to you.

Learn more about the Modern Homesteading Academy, a low cost series of ebooks and mini-courses.

 

This will close in 15 seconds