Spring is the perfect time to start seeds indoors, especially for gardeners in Calgary’s Zone 3 climate. With a short growing season, getting an early start ensures strong, healthy seedlings ready for transplanting. In this guide, I cover the must-have tools, best heirloom seeds, and where to find everything you need.
1. Quality Seeds 🌱
Choosing high-quality seeds is the foundation of a successful garden. Opt for heirloom varieties for unique flavors and resilience.
Best Heirloom Seed Choices:
- Vegetables: Roma tomatoes, bush beans, Nantes carrots
- Herbs: Thai basil, anise hyssop, lemon balm
- Flowers: Heirloom sweet peas, cosmos, and zinnias
🔍 Where to Buy: Search online for local seed sellers and garden groups, Spruce It Up Garden Centre, Golden Acre Home & Garden (Calgary), West Coast Seeds, Richters Herbs (online)
2. Seed Trays and Containers 🏺
Using the right containers ensures proper root development and helps prevent common seed-starting problems.
✅ Recommended Options:
- Standard 72-cell trays for a variety of seedlings
- Biodegradable pots for easy transplanting
- Recycled containers like yogurt cups or egg cartons with drilled drainage holes. I like red solo cups!
🛍 Where to Buy: Local Garden Centres, Canadian Tire, Home Depot, Amazon, dollar stores (seasonal)
3. High-Quality Seed-Starting Mix 🌿
A well-draining, nutrient-rich mix promotes strong root growth.
💡 Tip: Avoid using regular garden soil, which may compact and hinder growth.
🛍 Where to Buy: Pro-Mix (my fave) or Jiffy seed-starting mix at Lowe’s, Canadian Tire, Home Hardware, or garden centers
4. Grow Lights 💡
Calgary’s winter and early spring light is not be enough for seedlings unless you have a super bright window. Investing in proper lighting prevents leggy growth.
Best Grow Light Options:
- LED grow lights – Energy-efficient and long-lasting
- Fluorescent T5 bulbs – Affordable and effective
📍 Where to Buy: Rona, hydroponic shops, Amazon, Costco (seasonal or online)
5. Heat Mats 🌡️
Some seeds, like tomatoes and peppers, need warmth to germinate faster.
🛍 Where to Buy: Available at garden centers, hydroponic stores, and Amazon.
6. Humidity Domes ☁️
Maintains moisture levels for faster germination.
🛍 Where to Buy: Found in most seed-starting kits at garden centers and hardware stores.
7. Watering Tools 💦
Watering seedlings gently is key to preventing damage.
💡 Ideal Tools:
- Spray bottles for misting delicate seedlings
- Long necked watering cans to reach easily
- Bottom-watering trays to keep soil evenly moist
🛍 Where to Buy: Dollarama, Walmart, garden supply stores
8. Air Circulation & Ventilation 💨
Prevent mold and strengthen seedlings with proper airflow.
💡 Solutions:
- Use a small fan for air circulation
- Open humidity domes as seedlings grow
🛍 Where to Buy: Small clip-on fans at Canadian Tire, Walmart, or online
9. Labels & Record-Keeping 🏷️
Stay organized by labeling seed trays and keeping a gardening journal.
🛍 Where to Buy: Wooden craft sticks from dollar stores, waterproof labels from garden centers or online
10. Hardening Off Setup 🌞
Before transplanting, introduce seedlings gradually to outdoor conditions.
✅ Steps to Harden Off Seedlings:
- Place outside in a shady, sheltered area for a few hours daily
- Increase exposure to sun and length of time over 7-10 days before planting
🛍 Where to Buy: Cold frames or mini greenhouses at Home Depot, Lee Valley, or garden stores
Final Thoughts
By having the right seed-starting essentials, you’ll set your plants up for success in Calgary’s Zone 3 climate. From heirloom seeds to proper lighting and ventilation, each step is crucial to growing strong, healthy seedlings.
🌱 What are you starting indoors this season? Share in the comments below!
Andrea’s Path to Plants 
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