The short answer
Work backwards from a planting date suitable for your crop and location. Use the packet’s timing; there is no single sowing month for every garden.
See the sourceIn this guide
Check your situation
- Check whether the crop is intended for an indoor start or direct sowing.
- Think ahead to the light and space seedlings will need as they grow.
What to do now
- Read the packet for timing and germination requirements.
- Choose a locally suitable outdoor planting date for the crop.
- Enter the packet’s week range in the date planner.
- Prepare draining containers and an appropriate sowing mix.
What not to do
- Do not transfer UK or Minnesota calendars directly to another climate.
- Do not start every crop indoors simply because you have a tray.
Do you need to buy anything?
Check existing containers and growing space before buying a larger setup.
Keep going
Sources behind this page
- RHS: How to sow seeds indoorsUnited Kingdom. Use crop-specific packet instructions and local planting dates.Source checked 7 October 2026
- University of Minnesota Extension: Starting seeds indoorsMinnesota, United States. Indoor seed starting. Regional calendar dates are not universal.Source checked 7 October 2026
We summarise published guidance. We have not independently tested these methods or the products discussed.
AI-assisted editorial check: 7 October 2026. This is a source and clarity check, not a review by a horticultural expert.