When Sarah and I founded Modern Sprout, it was less about wanting to be a small business owner and much more about wanting to find a smart solution to grow all the fresh herbs and veggies I wanted for cooking.
We realized the challenges we had growing in our Chicago apartment were probably the same problems many people experienced: space, light, time, materials, experience and where to go for resources when we needed help. So, we knew any solution we came up with needed to address all those and more.
Fast-forward 12 years later, and a few things have changed. We have a family, Modern Sprout has grown – and I’m an even more curious gardener and avid home chef than I was back then.
I’m on a constant quest to grow new produce and flowers. And I’m always looking to try new methodologies that are better for the earth and my community. And, now, I’m always looking for ways to bring our kids into the process. One way I’ve found that ticks all those boxes — for me and for our family — is seed starting. I know it can feel intimidating at first, so here are some of my top five tips from my many years of seed starting.
Source Your Seeds
Seed catalogs (aka what we call seed porn at home) arrive late fall or winter. I always like to support reputable brands. Companies like Johnny’s, Seed Saver Exchange, Baker Creek Heirloom are great. Kitazawa has an awesome offering of Asian varieties.
Plan Smartly
Before you seed start, start planning. Success starts with garden planning. We know that many eager gardens don’t have a ton of space – same here! – so we have to be thoughtful. Be sure plants have the space they need, nothing thrives in an overcrowded garden.
Remember Herbs
We’re big on cooking at our house, so herbs are a staple. Basil, oregano, cilantro, rosemary, thyme all start well from seed so are always part of our seed starting and garden planning. Learn from my mistakes: cilantro needs to be delicately transplanted.
Try Something New
It’s fun to grow favorites year after year, but don’t sleep on new seeds! Last year, we decided to try and grow shallots and onions from seed. After doing a little research, we dug a little trench, scattered the seeds, covered and watered regularly. Even now, I’m always amazed it even works.
Choose Wisely
Determine what you’ll be able to start indoors – the things you want a couple larger plants of. If you want many plants of something, you’ll want to directly sow it in the garden outdoors. And, one last tip if it helps you decide: In my experience, the bigger the seed, the easier it is to grow.
Curious to see how Nick does this growing season? Want more trips from seed starting through to harvest? Follow along on social media @modsprout.
Happy Cultivating,
The Modern Sprout Team
