How to Germinate Pansy Seeds Inside

Purchase grow boxes or seed trays from a garden center, or make your own by recycling small plastic pots or multi-celled flats from a nursery. If you reuse containers, wash them thoroughly and soak in a solution of 1 part bleach to 10 parts water to prevent the transfer of harmful microorganisms.

Fill containers with a commercially prepared soilless potting mix, or create a lightweight potting medium by mixing 1 part potting soil, 1 part peat moss and 1 part vermiculite or sand.

Water soil first, then place two to four seeds in each pot. Use high-quality seeds from a reputable garden-supply dealer to increase the chances of germination.

Cover seeds with 1/8-inch of potting mix, and press down firmly.

Cover growing containers with plastic wrap or place inside a large plastic bag. The idea is to create a growing environment that holds in moisture while the seeds germinate.

Place growing containers in a cool, dark place such as a basement, storage room or closet. If you do not have a place that allows complete darkness, cover the containers with black plastic to block out light.

Check every few days to see if seeds have sprouted. Seeds usually germinate in seven to 14 days. When sprouts appear, uncover the containers and move them to a cool, well-lit location. Place plants under a fluorescent grow light in a cool area such as a basement or near a window in an air-conditioned room. Do not to place seedlings too close to a sunny window where they may become overheated.

Mist seedlings frequently to keep soil evenly moist but not soaked. Do not let the soil dry out.

After the first true leaves appear, thin seedlings to one plant per pot or about 2 inches apart.

Fertilize weekly with a half-strength solution of water-soluble fertilizer.

Transfer pansies to their permanent location outdoors after about 10 to 12 weeks. Remember to harden the plants off before planting outside.