Home » Blog » Seed Starting In Rochester NY (Zone 6B) Seed Starting In Rochester NY (Zone 6B) February 20, 2025 Seeds Ah, Rochester, NY, where the winters are long, and the growing season is short—but fear not! Even though you’re in USDA Zone 6b, you can get a head start on your garden by starting seeds indoors. It’s like giving your plants a VIP pass to the growing season. So, grab your seed starter kit, a cozy blanket, and let’s dive into the world of indoor seed starting.When to Start SeedsWarm-season crops (think tomatoes, peppers, eggplants): Start these babies indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost (May 15th). Cool-season crops (lettuce, broccoli, kale): These hearty guys can handle a little chill, so you can start them 4-6 weeks before the last frost (May 15th).Start Off The Right Way: Choosing Seed-Starting ProductsJiffy Is Your BFF For Seed Starting Jiffy products are the real MVPs when it comes to seed starting. There’s everything from window sill starter kits, self-watering kits, hot houses, heat mats, jiffy pellets and biodegradable pots, just to name a few! Their specially formulated seed-starting mix is lightweight, well-draining, and has just the right stuff for seedlings to get cozy without drowning in a mud bath. Use Proper Seed Starting Mix: Just listen to us When starting seeds indoors, skip the regular potting soil—it’s like trying to grow plants in a mud pit! Seed-starting soil is lighter, fluffier, and drains better, giving your seedlings the room to stretch their roots without drowning.Light and Watering: Keep it Bright, Keep it Moist (Not Too Much, Though)If you’re trying to grow your seeds in the shade of a dim, dark basement, well, your plants are going to be sad. And nobody likes a sad plant. Aim for 12-16 hours of light a day. If your windowsill is less “sunny haven” and more “frozen tundra,” it might be time to invest in grow lights.*Note about watering: don’t drown your seedlings! They’re not fish, they’re plants. Use a gentle spray bottle or a watering can with a fine spout. Keep the soil moist but not soggy—think of it like a sponge, not a swimming pool.Hardening Off: Let Your Seedlings Get Tough Don’t just toss your delicate seedlings outside like they’re ready for the Hunger Games. You need to harden them off, which is just a fancy way of saying “give them a few days to adjust to the outside world.” Start by placing your seedlings outside for a couple of hours a day, then gradually increase their outdoor exposure over the course of a week. By the time they’re ready to face the full wrath of the outside world, they’ll be tough and strong—and ready to live their best plant life. Transplanting: From Indoor Diva to Outdoor Superstar Once your seedlings have grown into sturdy, mature plants, it’s time to transplant them into your garden. Make sure your garden beds are prepared and that the weather is warm enough to support their big debut. Water them thoroughly after transplanting, then step back and marvel at your beautiful garden. And remember, transplanting isn’t just a one-time thing—it’s like sending your kid off to college. They need support, so keep an eye on them as they settle into their new environment.In The End: You’ve Got ThisStarting seeds indoors might sound like a lot of work, but with the right timing, the right products, and a little TLC, you’ll have your plants thriving in no time. The key is to understand your crops, give them enough light, and keep them hydrated—without turning them into waterlogged messes. In a few months, you’ll be enjoying the fruits (and vegetables) of your labor.and remember: if all else fails, blame the weather!Thanks for joining and stay tuned for next time! Courtney McEvily • Assistant Garden Center Manager