Starting Seeds

My first batch of seeds are doing well, I definitely learned somethings since last spring. First some things I did wrong last year:
I planted everything at the same time
I used potting soil
I didn't give them enough light.

So here is what I learned in my seed class:
Use high quality seeds.
Plant each type of plant at the right time, so it's not in a pot longer than it wants to be. This means 2-3 indoor planting dates.
Use soilless mix made just for starting seeds - this prevents damping off.
Give them warmth - a heating mat, on top of the fridge, etc.
Light! - Not just a sunny window. They need lots of light, and just very close to keep from getting leggy. I keep my light an inch or two above my seedlings.
Thin them, overcrowding causes problems.
Fertilize with half strength fertilizer as soon as their leaves are out, I am using fish emulsion.

I started my seeds in a flat with a clear lid, I was worried about the low humidity in our house with the wood stove. However, I should have removed this lid as soon as some of the seeds sprouted because I had some seeds rot due to too much moisture.

This is the starting mix that I used


This is what Aaron built me for Valentine's day. The light was given to us by our neighbors in Corvallis when they demo'd their garage. The wood is mostly from pallets. My seedling mat is sitting on a large piece of insulation. It's not beautiful, but it is functional and my seedlings are doing great.


Gold bell peppers


Black Trifelle tomatoes


Ruby Ball Cabage - second seeding, the first round rotted.


Lots of lettuce! New Fire Red


I also have artichokes that are just popping up! They may be more trouble than it's worth, but I'll have fun trying at least.

This first planting I planted:
Tomatoes
Peppers
Cabbage
Broccoli
Lettuce
Artichokes

Next up:
Cucumbers
Melon
Squash