Beat the Winter Blues: Start Your Seeds Indoors for a Head Start on Spring
POMONA, N.Y. (February 17, 2026) Spring may still feel far off with cold temperatures and snow still covering the ground, Down to Earth Living is encouraging gardeners to make the most of the season indoors by starting seeds early.
From browsing seed catalogs and planning garden layouts to planting seedlings now, gardeners can get a head start on spring and grow stronger, healthier plants once warm weather arrives.
When to Start Seeds
Seed starting time depends on what you are growing, the plant variety, and your local climate.
In our region, including Rockland, Bergen, Westchester, and the Hudson Valley, the last frost date usually falls between late April and early May. Be sure to check your local date before transplanting any seedlings.
To decide when to start seeds indoors, count backward 4–8 weeks from your local last frost date. This gives seedlings time to grow before transplanting.
Keep in mind the last frost date is an estimate.
Weather can vary year to year, so gardeners should monitor conditions and adjust timing as needed.
Start with the Right Equipment
To start seeds indoors, you'll need containers, seed-starting mix, seeds, water, and adequate light.
Use peat pots or plugs to start seeds, which help protect roots during transplant.
Select a high-quality seed-starting mix for young plants.
Start with quality seeds and follow the packet instructions for planting depth, spacing, and care.
Try easy vegetables like lettuce or tomatoes for beginners.
Tips for Success
Here are some tips for successful seed starting:
Start with clean containers: Wash them well with soap and water, then rinse thoroughly.
Plant at the right depth, as indicated on your seed packet.
Seedlings need 12–16 hours of light daily, either from a sunny window or grow lights. If using grow lights, keep them about 2 inches above the plants.
Keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid overwatering by checking regularly.
Provide ventilation: Airflow is important for preventing disease and promoting strong growth. Open a window or use a fan to circulate the air around your seedlings.
Harden off your plants: Before transplanting your seedlings outside, gradually expose them to outdoor conditions by placing them outside for a few hours each day.
Transplant carefully: When it’s time to transplant your seedlings, be gentle. Carefully lift them out of their containers and plant them at the same depth they grew in.
“Starting your garden indoors is a great way to beat the winter blues and get a jump on spring. With the right tools and a little know-how, you can grow strong, healthy plants from seed. Just follow the basics: read your seed packets, provide plenty of light and water, and be patient,” said Stuart Leventhal, owner of Down to Earth Living.
Down to Earth Living, now in its 56th year, is a Garden Center serving Rockland, Bergen and Orange counties and the Hudson Valley, offering 12.5 acres filled with perennials, flowers, shrubs, and trees, with new plants arriving weekly. The 10,000-square-foot showroom features a selection of contemporary, classic, traditional, and transitional teak, aluminum, and all-weather dining and deep-seated furniture. Located at 1040 Route 45 in Pomona, N.Y., Down to Earth Living is closed for its winter break and will reopen on March 13. For more information, call 845-354-8500 or visit www.dteliving.com.