How to Use Shelving for Starting Plants
Don't let lack of space or a greenhouse prevent you from starting seeds at home. Use metal or heavy-duty plastic shelving to create a multi-layer seed-starting unit. Hanging a grow light between each shelf and using germination heat mats creates optimal growing conditions for seed germination and young seedlings. Basic shelving units are inexpensive, and the entire growing unit can be assembled and the seeds planted in one afternoon.
Select an indoor location for the shelving that is away from cold drafts, excess heat and heavy foot traffic. Lay plastic sheeting on the floor so it will be underneath the shelves. The plastic sheeting will prevent problems with spilled water, soil and/or fertilizer. The room's ideal temperature should be above 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Put the shelving in the location.
Attach hanging chains to each end of long grow lights or fluorescent lights. Hang the chains from the bottom of each shelf to provide enough light for plant growth. Use wire to secure the chains and lights in place, or hang them from S hooks. You may need to drill holes into the edge of the shelving if no holes already exist.
Fill seed-starting or germination trays with seed-starting soil, and moisten the soil. Stick seeds into the soil to the depth listed on the seed package. Cover the trays with clear plastic to create a greenhouse effect.
Place germination heat mats on the shelves, and set the seed-starting or germination trays on top of the heat mats. Adjust the grow lights or fluorescent lights so they are 4 to 6 inches above the trays. You don't have to turn on the lights until sprouts appear.
Monitor the soil moisture in the trays, and mist the soil as needed to keep it the consistency of a moist sponge. Avoid saturating the soil.
Remove the clear plastic covering from the trays when sprouts appear. Turn on the grow lights or fluorescent lights, and adjust their height if necessary so they are 4 to 6 inches above the top of the sprouts. Raise the lights as needed keep that amount of space between the lights and the tops of plants to prevent scorching the foliage. Set the lights on a timer so they are on 12 to 16 hours each day, which provides optimal plant growth.
Remove the seedlings from the shelving unit once they are about 4 inches tall or you can no longer raise the lights high enough to prevent scorching the leaves.
- Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images