Quick Start + troubleshooting for your 6-pack. Choose a variety below.

Quick Start (30 seconds)

Keep it simple: steady moisture, bright light, and the right sowing depth.

Prep

Fill pots or trays with evenly moistened, loose seed-starting mix.

Sow

Sow seeds about 2× their thickness; shallow sowing works best.

Water

Keep the mix evenly moist throughout—damp, not dripping or soggy.

Light

Give 6–8 hours of bright light from sun or grow lights.

Thin

Thin seedlings early and keep the strongest after sprouting.

Tip: Warmth, bright light, and evenly moist seed-starting mix help most varieties sprout in about 7–10 days.

Troubleshooting

Most early problems come down to moisture, light, depth, or temperature.

Too wet?
Let the surface dry slightly and improve drainage. The mix should feel damp throughout, not waterlogged.
Not enough light?
Move closer to a bright window or add a simple grow light. Low light often causes weak, leggy seedlings.
Too dry?
Keep the mix evenly moist throughout — not just on top. If the surface is damp but the inside is dry, sprouting may stall.
Too deep?
Next time sow shallower — about 2× the seed’s thickness is enough for most varieties.
Too cold?
Aim for about 60–75°F (16–24°C). Warm conditions usually speed up germination.
Slow to sprout?
In warm conditions, most varieties can sprout in about 7–10 days. If they are slower, check temperature and moisture below the surface.

Choose Your Variety

Open the guide for your variety below. Each one includes quick specs, common mistakes, and a short help form.

Leaf Lettuce

Crisp greens with a fast, beginner-friendly harvest.

Arugula

Peppery greens that grow quickly in cooler conditions.

Kale

Hardy greens you can harvest again and again.

Basil

A warm-season classic with big flavor and strong aroma.

Mint

Fragrant, vigorous, and great for tea or fresh garnish.

Chives

Mild onion flavor that’s easy to snip and use often.

Each guide includes quick specs, common mistakes, and a short help form.

Need help growing?

Tell us what you tried (soil, light, watering) and what you see. We reply within 1 business day.