When to start seeds

[JBtheExplorer]

So, I've got a lot of seeds I'm starting indoors this year. Perennials, annuals, native plants, non-native plants.

I started quite a few indoors last year, but got a late start and some didn't get outdoors until July. This year I'd like to get them out as soon as the average last frost date (depending on what the weather is like at that point), so I'm wondering what you guys think as far as when to start them. Most online sources say 6-8 weeks, but I'm sure many of you have had experience with starting seeds and I'd love to hear your input on that time. Would you push it any longer than 8 weeks? I've got just about 10 weeks until the average last frost day here so it's something that has been on my mind and I can't wait to get started.

I have my own method of starting seeds which worked out great last year. I recycle water bottles, cut them, put the top half into the bottom half, etc. All seeds grew and most lived, aside from the ones that dried out when I went on a camping trip. I usually grow four in each "container", and they stay in the same container from seed until I plant them outside, so I wonder if that is something that would effect your opinion on how long to grow them indoors.

 

[Pat]

If you wanted to put your plants out before the final frost you could use a cold frame, that would help to protect your plants when a final frost comes thru. I lost plants last summer because of a cold rain that came thru and my plant was not protected from the cold. Have fun.

 

[CanadianLori]

I started some of my hot pepper seeds on Christmas Day. I already have some tomato seedlings going and a couple of annual flowers - nicotiana, pansies.

 

[deepestblues]

I'm still sorting through what I'm going to grow and stuff. By March 1st I'll really have some sort of idea. Actually I have a good idea about what I'll be growing but between now and then it'll all change.