1. Space you can warm (80-85 degrees F is best for germination) and cool.

2. Strong, cool light. A two-bulb fluorescent "shop light" works well if mounted on chains, so it can be lowered/raised from a frame or hooks.

3. Individual containers with drainage holes in the bottom -- pots or cups.

4. If wanted, commercial "flats" or shallow, flat boxes to hold containers.

1. Potting mix - synthetic (soilless) or traditional commercial brands.

2. Seed packets. (Saved seed may not grow true to form.)

3. Soluble fertilizer.

Start 6-8 weeks before you plan to move seedlings outdoors.

Fill containers two-thirds full with potting mix. Place several seeds in each and cover lightly with mix. Water gently. Place in warm location. (Crops such as lettuce also need light.) Cover with plastic or a blanket to reduce evaporation; keep seeds moist.

After germination, adjust temperatures to create day-night conditions, or gradually move temperatures back to a 65 to 70 F average. Place and keep light 2-4 inches above the top of the plants, raising the fixture as the plants grow.

Apply water or a water-fertilizer solution, as needed. Exactly follow the fertilizer’s label directions for seedling plants. (Soilless potting mixes can require 2-3 feedings a week.)

Thin plants, leaving one strong seedling per container.

The week before transplanting, prepare seedlings for outdoors. Lower the room temperature, reduce watering, and/or cutback on both. In the last few days, move plants to outdoor location during day and inside at night, if possible.