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Feb. 24, 2025Jefferson City, Mo. |  By: Jeremy Werner

MU Extension Office offers gardening transition tips

gardening

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. - Gardeners eager to get a head start on the season can begin planting seeds indoors now. The University of Missouri Extension Office says most seeds should be started six to eight weeks before transplanting.

To determine the best time, count back from your outdoor planting date and add in the germination time listed on the seed packet. Proper containers are essential—use new ones or clean reused containers with a bleach solution.

A high-quality seed-starting mix is recommended, while poor-quality soils can cause problems. Lighting is also key. Fluorescent shop lights should be placed just one to two inches above seedlings to prevent weak, lanky growth.

Keep temperatures below 70 degrees during the day and provide good air circulation. Before moving seedlings outdoors, they must be hardened off by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over several days.

For more information, visit the MU Extension website.