Let’s Grow Your Mind: Starting Seeds Smartly

Let's Grow Your Mind! Series

If you’ve ever wondered about the quirky, fascinating, and unexpected corners of horticulture, the Let’s Grow Your Mind education series is for you! From plant folklore and pollinator behavior to soil secrets and botanical oddities, these sessions are as entertaining as they are enlightening.  Whether you're a seasoned grower or just plant-curious, come feed your mind and grow your garden know-how in ways you never expected!

Starting Seeds Smartly

Starting seeds indoors is one of the most rewarding ways to kick‑off your gardening season—especially for gardeners in Zones 5–8 who want a head start on spring. With the right approach, you can grow strong, healthy transplants long before the weather cooperates.  In this hands‑on, beginner‑friendly class, you’ll learn how to choose the right seeds, determine ideal sowing dates, and set up efficient indoor growing spaces using lights, heat, and simple equipment. We’ll walk through watering techniques, thinning and fertilizing, and how to manage light levels to avoid weak or leggy seedlings.

You’ll also explore how to harden off seedlings and transition them safely outdoors once temperatures stabilize—an essential step for long‑term success.  By the end, you’ll feel confident starting seeds indoors even in small spaces, and you’ll be ready to time your plantings for abundant spring and summer harvests.

SPEAKER:  Belinda Chester, Consumer Horticulture Program Associate I

COST:  $20