How to Start Seeds Inside With Plant & Aquarium Bulbs

Instructions

• 1

  Purchase plant seeds, a 4-foot fluorescent fixture, and T12 fluorescent bulbs from a home improvement store. Purchasing a fixture with a cord already installed will save you from wiring the fixture.

• 2

  Set up a table or shelf in the area you'll be starting your seeds. Be sure there is an outlet nearby.

• 3

  Consult the instruction manual for the 4-foot fluorescent fixture and hang it from the ceiling. Hang the light low enough that it will be within a few inches of your seeds. When your plants grow, the closer they are to the light, the better growth they will get. Install T12 bulbs into the fixture and plug it into a wall outlet. You may need a short extension cord to reach the nearest outlet.

• 4

  Prepare your pots with a good quality potting mix. Open the seed packets and plant the seeds in the pots according to the planting instructions. Water thoroughly to remove any air pockets in the soil.

• 5

  Place the pots on the table and keep the soil moist until you see germination. Operate the fluorescent lights 16 hours a day to receive maximum plant growth. Use an automatic timer to keep them on a set schedule.

• 6

  After the seeds germinate, continue watering at regular intervals until your plants are ready to be planted outside.