Tomatoes

Mid- to late- March is the ideal time to start tomato seeds in a sterile, soil-less starting mix. Germination increases greatly with the addition of gentle bottom heat. An easy way to keep your seed flats warm (and well reminded!) is to place them on top of the refrigerator.

A cool basement is ideal for setting up a “mini” greenhouse with shelves for the new seedlings. Grow lights or florescent fixtures can be hung 1-2” above the flats using small chain and S-hooks. As the seedlings grow, the lights can be moved higher. A timer will automatically regulate the 14-18 hours of daily light.