1. Wash containers (milk or egg cartons, cans, flower pots) to remove soil and debris. Disinfect in a solution of 1 part household bleach and 9 parts water.
2. Fill the containers to within ½ inch of the top with vermiculite, or a mix of 1 part peat moss and 10 parts perlite.
3. Wet and drain the mix.
4. Sprinkle the seeds over the surface.
5. Cover lightly with soil mix or pet moss.
6. Place the containers in clear plastic bags and seal to provide humidity and prevent the soil from drying out. Place the containers in a location in which the temperature is suitable for seed germination (see Vegetable Seed Information).
7. As soon as the seedlings emerge, remove the bags and move the containers to a warm area with bright light, either on a windowsill or under fluorescent lights.
8. As soon as the seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant them into disinfected flats or peat pots containing a mix of equal parts peat moss and perlite, and ½ teaspoon limestone per quart of mix.
9. Place the flats in a warm area with bright light.
10. feed the seedlings weekly with a liquid or soluble fertilizer mixed at half strength.
11. One week before planting outdoors, harden off the plants by placing them outdoors a few hours a day, until they are outside a full day by the end of the week. Transplant into the garden according to the spacing recommended on the seed packet.
