When & How to Start Seeds Indoors

The right seed at the right time.
But what does that actually mean?
Does it really matter when you plant your seeds?
Short answer? Yes.
Long answer? Also yes… especially in Manitoba.

Last week we talked about days to maturity. This week, we’re digging a little deeper into why that number matters so much.

Why Timing Is Everything

Some plants simply take longer to mature than others.

Take peppers, for example:

That extra time matters. In Manitoba, our growing season is shorter, which means if we want those spicy peppers to succeed, we need to start them indoors earlier.

That’s what “right seed, right time” is all about.

Frost-Free Days (This Is Important!)

Frost-free days are the number of days each year when frost is not a concern. That number determines what we can successfully grow.

In most of Manitoba:

And that’s if Mother Nature is cooperating.

Those 125–130 days are your growing window. When you know how many days your plant needs to mature, you can work backward and figure out when to start it.

Seed-Starting Calendars & Calculators

There are plenty of seed-starting date calculators online. They can be super helpful — just make sure you’re looking at one for your region.

Manitoba and BC, for example, have very different frost-free windows. What works on the West Coast may not work here.

If you’re ever unsure, check your local frost dates and count backward from there.

Now Let’s Talk About How to Start Seeds Indoors

There’s no single “right” way to do this.

The best setup depends on:

Some seeds need steady warmth.

Some need extra light.

Most need consistent moisture.

Here are a few simple options that we offer:

Greenhouse Kits

Perfect if you’re just getting started.

These usually include:

Heat mats are helpful for seeds that need consistent warmth to germinate (like peppers). Just make sure you’ve got a plug nearby!

Great option if you’re starting several different varieties at once.

Pots

If you’re trying just 3–5 varieties, small pots might be your best bet.

They:

Just make sure they have drainage holes. Too much water with nowhere to go can cause seeds to rot.

Trays

Starting a lot of seeds? Trays are your friend.

Tips for trays:

If one variety pops up quickly and the others are slower, the fast ones can stretch while waiting for light.

Domes

Humidity domes help hold in moisture and warmth during germination.

Paired with a heat mat, you’ve basically created a mini greenhouse at home.

You can even add a small thermometer/humidity gauge if you want to level up your seed-starting game.

Grow Lights

Most seeds don’t need light to germinate — but once they sprout, they immediately start searching for it.

If they don’t get enough light, they stretch.

If your seedlings stretch, don’t panic. They’re not garbage. Just move them to:

Grow lights make a big difference, especially during our shorter spring days.

Clean & Reuse

The good news?

Most seed-starting supplies can be reused year after year.

Just be sure to:

This prevents disease and pests from carrying over into the next season.

You Don’t Have to Plant Everything

Just because you bought the seeds doesn’t mean you need to plant them all.

Most seeds stay viable for about three years if stored in a cool, dry place (some gardeners even keep them in the fridge).

And if you do end up with extras?

Plants make wonderful gifts for neighbors and friends.

The Best Part

There are many ways to start seeds — and none of them have to be perfect.

Read your seed packet.

Do a little research if needed.

Start with what you can manage.

Watching a tiny seed turn into something that feeds your family or blooms beautifully in your yard is incredibly rewarding. It’s a small act that feels like magic every single time.

Shop all Seed Starting Products

Next week, we’ll dig into another important question:

What’s the best soil for starting seeds?

See you then