I am just getting started and I tried to use some online guides for supplies to grow herbs to eventually make elixirs or dry and make my own teas. I have only dumped the soil in the “self watering” pots, I have not used the liquid stuff yet or planted seeds because I don’t want to do this wrong.
The seeds are: Lemon Balm, Passionflower, Marshmallow, Basil, Chamomile, Sideritis, Nettles, and Tulsi.
A few mostly yes/no questions:
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I bought a full spectrum grow light. Since these are multiple different seeds, is it best to put the timer on during day light hours and 100% brightness?
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Can I plant multiple seeds from different herbs in one pot?
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If not, which 5 will be the easiest to start with?
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Is 4 – 5 seeds per herb OK?
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Should I start with the guide for how to water these herbs?
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If no, what should I do before I start planting seeds?
Thank you so much in advance for your help! I really appreciate it!
by kittycatbytes
1 Comment
Welcome to seed starting! It can be challenging but is so rewarding 🙂
I have a suggestion right off the bat: I *highly* suggest you start your seeds in smaller containers, then when they’re bigger transplant into the pots you have shown. You know the plastic six packs you see seedlings in at the garden center? They’re used for a reason & they’re excellent for starting seeds. You’ll want the soil in the little section to be able to dry out a bit & have good drainage, which is one of the benefits of the growers pot.
To answer some of your questions:
-keep the light close to the seedlings, and yes keep it on during the day (12 hours of light is great)
-don’t mix seeds in a single container when you’re starting your seedlings. You can plant them together later when they’re larger, but it’s better to be able to identify which seedlings sprouted, observe their growing rates, etc. separately at first.
-to get started: fill your seed starting cells with potting soil, and wet the soil thoroughly. Then, plant the seeds as directed. Pay attention to specifics like depth, bottom heat, or light that could be needed to germinate. Cover with plastic wrap until you see the first seedling, then remove the plastic and start using your grow light.
I hope this helps!