10 Easy Plants to Grow from Seed Indoors

Growing plants from seeds can be an extremely rewarding hobby. There’s something magical about nurturing a tiny seed into a fully grown plant. However it can also seem intimidating especially for beginners. The key is to start with easy plants that have high germination rates indoors.

In this article, we’ll look at 10 of the easiest plants to grow from seed indoors. We’ll cover fast-growing vegetables, fragrant herbs, colorful flowers, and more. With proper care, these plants will thrive on a sunny windowsill or under grow lights. Read on for tips to get your indoor garden going!

Why Start Seeds Indoors?

Starting seeds indoors allows you to get a headstart on the growing season. While it’s too cold outside for seedlings, you can grow plants from seeds indoors where conditions are controlled. This gives plants like tomatoes and peppers enough time to mature and produce before summer ends

Indoor seed-starting also gives you more variety. Many seeds available at nurseries are bred to ship well. When you start seeds yourself, you can grow heirloom, exotic, and rare varieties.

Finally, it saves money Purchasing transplants from a garden center can get expensive Starting from seed is just pennies in comparison!

10 Easy Plants to Grow from Seeds Indoors

1. Lettuce

Lettuce is one of the easiest vegetables to grow from seed. It germinates quickly and can be harvested while young for salad greens. Leaf lettuce and mesclun mixes are fast-growing and don’t require much space. For best results, sow lettuce seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost. Provide plenty of light.

2. Radishes

Radish seeds germinate in just a few days, making them extremely gratifying for beginners. They reach maturity in less than a month. Sow them 3-4 weeks before your last frost for spring harvesting. Give them at least 6 hours of sun daily.

3. Green Onions

Also called scallions and bunching onions, green onions are another good choice for indoor seed-starting. They take just 16-18 days to form tiny bulbs from seed. Sow seeds 6-8 weeks before your last frost date. Place pots near a sunny window.

4. Basil

The aromatic leaves of basil add flavor to many dishes. Luckily, basil is easy to grow from seed with proper care. Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last spring frost. Provide ample warmth and regular watering. Pinch off flower buds to prolong harvest.

5. Marigolds

With their cheery blooms, marigolds are a great flower for beginners. They have a high germination rate indoors. Sow their tiny seeds 8-10 weeks before your last frost on the soil’s surface and water gently. Place in a sunny spot.

6. Zinnias

Known for their vivid colors, zinnias are easy to grow from seed. Direct sow after the last frost or start indoors 4-5 weeks early. Barely cover the seeds and keep moist. Once sprouted, gradually expose plants to more sun.

7. Nasturtiums

Both the leaves and flowers of nasturtiums are edible, adding peppery flavor to meals. Their seeds sprout readily indoors within 10-12 days when kept warm. Plant them 4 weeks before your last frost. Tip: Soak seeds in water overnight prior to planting.

8. Petunias

Petunias are a favorite for containers and garden beds. They bloom continuously from spring to frost. Start them indoors 8-10 weeks early, as they take a while to grow. Place seed trays in bright light and water sparingly after germination.

9. Tomatoes

Juicy tomatoes are easy to grow from seed with proper care. Sow indoors 6-8 weeks before outdoor planting time. Use grow lights or a south-facing window for 14 hours daily. Pot up seedlings regularly to encourage strong roots.

10. Peppers

Sweet or hot, peppers thrive when started indoors. They need warm soil to germinate, so keep seeds heated. Plant 8-10 weeks prior to last frost. Grow seedlings under fluorescent lights on a 14-hour schedule. Support leggy stems.

Tips for Growing Seeds Indoors

• Sterilize seed starting containers and tools to prevent disease.

• Use a seed starting mix instead of garden soil for better drainage.

• Follow seed packet instructions for planting depth and spacing.

• Label pots clearly so you don’t forget what you planted.

• Water seeds gently to avoid washing them away. Use a spray bottle.

• Cover seeded containers with plastic wrap or a humidity dome until sprouted.

• Move sprouted seedlings to bright, indirect light right away.

• Turn plants often so they grow straight and don’t stretch toward light.

• Use bottom heat, such as a seedling heat mat, for warmth-loving plants.

• Gently brush seedling stems daily to strengthen them.

• Thin overcrowded seedlings and transplant to larger pots.

• Harden off plants before moving them outside permanently.

• Enjoy your homegrown plants and fruits of your labor!

Starting plants from seeds is an extremely rewarding hobby. Follow proper techniques and begin with easy-to-grow seeds, like those covered here. You’ll be amazed at what you can grow on your windowsill or under grow lights! Monitor your seedlings daily and make adjustments to care as needed. Soon, you’ll have fresh herbs, vegetables, and flowers – all grown by you indoors!