Top 10 Plants to Start Indoors from Seed
Top 10 Plants to Start Indoors from Seed
Top 10 Plants to Start Indoors from Seed
Growing seeds indoors is a great way to have more control
over the growing environment, extend the growing season and save money. When choosing plants to start from seed indoors, it's important to consider factors such as the plant's growth habits, DLI requirements, temperature requirements and how long the plant takes to mature. DLI or Daily Light Integral refers to the number of photons received by a plant that provide photosynthetic activation. If you need help calculating your plant's DLI, please check out Active Grow’s DLI Calculator. With the right care and attention, starting plants from seed indoors can be a rewarding and productive experience.
Plant #1
Herbs
Herbs such as basil, chives, cilantro, dill, mint, oregano, parsley, rosemary and thyme can all be grown from seed indoors. They require well-draining soil, lots of light and regular watering.
DLI Requirements (mol/m²/d)
Seedling: 6-8
Vegetative to Maturity: 10-22 (Basil 26)
Plant #2
Microgreens
Microgreens are small, edible plants that are harvested when they are still young. They can be grown indoors using a shallow tray or container and require regular watering.
DLI Requirements (mol/m²/d)
Seedling: 6-8
Vegetative to Maturity: 10-14
Plant #3
Salad Greens
Lettuce, spinach, arugula and other salad greens can be grown from seed indoors. They require well draining soil, partial shade and regular watering.
DLI Requirements (mol/m²/d)
Seedling: 6-8
Vegetative to Maturity: 10-17
Plant #4
Tomatoes
Tomatoes can be grown indoors using an LED grow light or in a sunny windowsill. They require well draining soil, lots of light and regular watering.
DLI Requirements (mol/m²/d)
Seedling: 8-18
Vegetative to Maturity: 20-32
Plant #5
Peppers
Peppers can be grown indoors using an LED grow light or in a sunny windowsill. They require well-draining soil, lots of light, warm temperatures and regular watering.
DLI Requirements (mol/m²/d)
Seedling: 8-18
Vegetative to Maturity: 20-32
Plant #6
Cucumbers
Cucumbers can be grown indoors using a trellis or support system and an LED grow light. They require well-draining soil, lots of light, warm temperatures and regular watering.
DLI Requirements (mol/m²/d)
Seedling: 5-15
Vegetative to Maturity: 20-30
Plant #7
Cannabis
Cannabis can be started indoors using an LED grow light. It requires well-draining soil, lots of light and regular watering.
DLI Requirements (mol/m²/d)
Seedling: 8-18
Vegetative to Maturity: 20-36
Plant #8
Strawberries
Strawberries can be grown indoors using a hanging basket or container and an LED grow light. They require well-draining soil, lots of light and regular watering.
DLI Requirements (mol/m²/d)
Seedling: 5-15
Vegetative to Maturity: 17-26
Plant #9
Succulents
Succulents are low-maintenance plants that can be grown from seed indoors. They require well-draining soil, bright indirect light from a window or LED grow light and occasional watering.
DLI Requirements (mol/m²/d)
Seedling: 5-15
Vegetative to Maturity: 17-30+
Plant #10
African Violets
African violets are a popular indoor plant that can be grown from seed. They require well-draining soil, bright but indirect light or LED light, and regular watering.
DLI Requirements (mol/m²/d)
Seedling: 5-15
Vegetative to Maturity: 17-26