There are flowers and veggies I'd like to start indoors, but I'm confused about which system to use when. I'm getting some grow lights, because that seems like a good idea, and I've set up a mini-greenhouse thing on the deck. My current thought is to start plants indoors with grow lights, then move them to the mini-greenhouse later on. And the warming mat? I suppose I use that in addition to the grow lights if the seed directions say "provide bottom heat" or something like that. Does this sound right to you? Also, if I'm using grow lights indoors, do I need those clear plastic dome covers for seedlings? I'd appreciate any advice you have to offer.
You've almost got it! The only thing you're off about is the warming mat - that's used to hasten sprouting, especially for plants that normally wouldn't be planted out until well after last frost (lettuces, for example, and almost all tropical plants and flowers. Calendula also seems to appreciate it). With indoor grow lights, I wouldn't worry about those clear dome covers - those are meant to trap humidity, but with the heat provided by proper grow lights, you'd end up roasting your seeds. The domes are more for sunlight-based sprouting.
Thank you so much, lorax. This is incredibly helpful and reassuring. Now, about the warming mat. Suppose I'm starting some tropical flower, or some lettuce. Should I then use the warming mat and the grow lights together?
Yup! The mat provides the seeds the feeling that the soil is warm enough for them to sprout, and the lights give them the idea of sunshine to grow towards.
