Indoor seed sowing gives UK gardeners a 6-8 week head start on the growing season. Sow tender crops like tomatoes, peppers, and courgettes indoors from March at 18-21C. Use seed compost in clean trays or modules. Most vegetable seeds germinate in 7-14 days. Prick out seedlings when they develop their first true leaves. Pot on into larger containers as roots fill each pot.
Key takeaways
- Indoor sowing gives a 6-8 week head start on tender crops like tomatoes and peppers
- Use seed compost (not multipurpose) in clean trays or modules for best germination
- Most vegetable seeds germinate in 7-14 days at 18-21C
- Prick out seedlings when they develop their first pair of true leaves
- Harden off all indoor-raised plants for 10-14 days before planting outdoors
seed sowing indoor sowing propagation seedlings grow your own beginner guide
Our team produces practical UK gardening guidance from source research, contributor records and established horticultural practice. Editorial standards are overseen by Matt W.
