With all this nice weather, I’ve been itching to get outside and start gardening. I took some time yesterday to transplant a few houseplants whose containers had grown too small. I brought the whole gang outside (jade, spiders, aloe, ferns) grabbed a leftover bag of organic potting soil, earthworm castings, a watering can, and set up shop on the back patio. I was hoping to use some homemade compost, but it wasn’t quite ready yet.

The act of gardening is to some one of life’s strongest treasures. Digging hands in the dirt, touching earthworms, potato bugs, and all sorts of creeping crawlers, and holding the seeds of life are indeed remarkable.

However, living in an urban setting with no personal greenspace makes for a challenging experience. After failure after failure of apartment* gardening, I’m going to do things right this year by starting from seed. While planting season isn’t for another few weeks, I’ve decided to get going on a materials list so that I can be ready to go when the time comes.

For the most part, seeds should be planted indoors 6-8 weeks before the growing season. An estimated planting time between May 15 and June 1 should suffice, making somewhere around April 1 a good time to get those seeds in some dirt, though do check the seed packet instructions.

To maintain genetic variety and plant health, I recommend looking for alternative seed sources. Gardening clubs and some farms often host seed exchanges and plant swaps around this time. Even if you don’t have any seeds to offer, you’re eagerness to get in the garden will not be ignored; someone will share something with you (information from real gardeners is better than any book). If you prefer to buy online, Fedco Seed Co-op has a good selection of seeds at reasonable prices. Try to only use organic or untreated seeds, as ingesting even the smallest amount of pesticides can be harmful to your health and the environment.

Once you have seeds, you’ll need containers to place them it. While you can buy these at any home store, I’ve found that leftover egg cartons or Dixie cups work just as well. If you go this route, you’ll also need some plastic bags (leftover produce bags are fine) to trap humidity and warmth for the little guys. The store bought containers typically come with covers.

Next comes soil. As mentioned, I prefer to use organic potting soil. It’s a bit more expensive, but absolutely worth it. Home stores, local co-ops, and Fedco all sell multiple varieties. Fertilizers are not necessary until the seeds mature; potting soil without it is better for this task.

Labels or some sort of markers are also necessary. Don’t waste money buying these because really anything works- popsicle sticks, old blinds, toothpick flags, etc. Just make sure you know what is what; it’s very difficult to tell once they start sprouting.

Next, you’ll need a good source of light. I’ve had equal success with growth lights and windows. One caution for the window light: make sure there is no draft, as the seeds can freeze with cool air exposure.

And finally, water. Use whatever container you want here, though if your hand-eye coordination isn’t so hot, a container with a narrow mouth or funneled lip works best.

Be sure to check back in the next two weeks for planting directions and tips. If you’re going to go with the poor woman/college student gardening kit, start saving those egg cartons, plastic bags, and popsicle sticks over the next few weeks so that come planting time, you’re not strapped for materials. Also, if ordering seeds online, do so soon in order to assure an on-time delivery.

Happy gathering.

*Disclaimer: I always start a garden at my parents’ house, which for the most part is a success.