Newbie seed starting question

I want to grow lettuces and green onions indoors since it is too hot outside to do it. I have my wire shelf, some pots suitable for heads of lettuce, and a 6 bulb T5 light setup. I got some miracle gro seed starting mix at the hardware store and was wondering if I need to thoroughly wet it like you would for ProMix and when and how much fertilizer to use (assuming they germinate hehe).

Zone 7b NC

I would think you might need to wet it but check how it feels when you open the bag. I find that Miracle Gro usually comes with some slow acting fertilizer in it. I usually add worm castings to all my starting and transfer pots. I add fish fertilizer at half the regular amount when the plants are up and have the second leaves. I have used ProMix which I really like and Coir bricks for starting material. I usually avoid MIracle Grow as I like to add my own ferttilizer so don't know when you should add more using that.

I use a very weak miracle grow tea. (2 heaping tablespoons to 5 gal) and use in my 20" pots once a week.Do your pots drain well? I water mine well then let them just get to the dry stage before watering again.
Got my first ripe tomato today.
Vickie

I got the MG because it was convenient but I am rethinking my strategy. The Fish and Kelp emulsion is good stuff. I have one that is 4-1-1 and one that is 2-1-1. The lettuce can wait until the ProMix shows up. For most of my stuff I use seedlings from a nursery but this time I am trying from seed. I am sure I will make many mistakes and have a few failures but going for it anyways!

-V

You can still use the MG but I just wanted you to check how much fertilizer was already in it if any. The Fish fertilizer is always good once the seedlings get going. More nitrogen in the beginning is better than later for most plants - it depends what you are planting. If there is already fertilizer in the MG the 2-1-1 might be better to use with that. You will do fine! We all learn from doing so go for it! I still am learning when it comes to starting plants and trying different mediums. Experimenting is half the fun and if you are actually successful it is even more fun!

It is more fun to find your own way.You will probably find a couple different suggestions for every question you ask also.
Good luck and have fun with your gardening
Vickie

Lettuce, especially leaf lettuce can be grown very successfully indoors as can beets and onions. I've never tried to grow head lettuce except for starter plants outside. Also I agree with the above. Experiment and find your own way.

This message was edited Jul 21, 2011 8:20 AM