Hoffmann Homestead

If you’re eager to get a jump on your garden, starting seeds indoors well before the last frost can set you up for a thriving season. Many plants need extra time to become established before they’re ready for transplanting, especially those that take longer to mature or require warm soil to thrive.

Here are 10 plants you should start 10 weeks before your last expected frost date to ensure a strong and productive garden.

1. Peppers (Bell, Hot, and Sweet Varieties)

Peppers are slow growers and need plenty of warmth to germinate and thrive. Starting them indoors early allows them to develop strong roots and reach maturity sooner, leading to an earlier and longer harvest.

2. Eggplant

Like peppers, eggplants love warmth and take time to develop. They require consistently warm temperatures to germinate and grow strong before being transplanted into the garden.

3. Onions (From Seed)

If you’re growing onions from seed rather than sets, they need an early start. Starting them indoors ensures they have enough time to grow into full-sized bulbs before the summer heat kicks in.

4. Leeks

Leeks take a long time to grow but are incredibly cold-hardy. Starting them 10 weeks ahead gives them enough time to develop into sturdy seedlings before moving them outdoors.

5. Celery

Celery has a long growing season and slow germination process. It thrives with an early start and benefits from steady, cool growth conditions.

6. Broccoli

Broccoli can be started early and transplanted out before the last frost, as it tolerates cooler temperatures. Getting a head start ensures a healthy spring harvest.

7. Cabbage

Like broccoli, cabbage enjoys cool weather, and early planting allows it to establish before the heat of summer, which can cause it to bolt.

8. Cauliflower

Cauliflower is another brassica that benefits from an early start. It requires a longer growing season and steady conditions to form those perfect heads.

9. Artichokes

If you live in colder regions, artichokes can be grown as annuals. Starting them early indoors allows them to reach maturity in time for a productive season.

10. Parsley

Parsley seeds are notoriously slow to germinate, often taking 3-4 weeks. Starting them indoors gives them a head start and ensures an early harvest.

Bonus Tip: Provide the Right Conditions

To ensure success with early starts, use a heat mat for warm-weather crops like peppers and eggplants, provide plenty of light with grow lights or a bright south-facing window, and use a fan for airflow to develop strong stems.

By starting these 10 plants 10 weeks before your last frost, you’ll set your garden up for a bountiful and thriving season!

Happy gardening! 🌱🌿