The trick is to read the seed packets to see when's the best time to plant them.
If a packet says "start seeds eight weeks before the last average freeze," count back from May 15, which is the last average day of frost for the Front Range.
That would be about April 1. Seeds that would fall into this general category would be warm season annuals and vegetables such as marigolds, impatiens, peppers and tomatoes.
The seeds of cool season annuals such as lettuce, spinach and pansies, may be started fairly soon.
These can be planted outside in March. In addition, you can also sprout the seeds of alfalfa, Mung beans or micro-greens that can be used anytime in salads and other dishes.
When you start seeds indoors, use a potting medium made especially for this purpose. I like to use plastic six-pack cells or fiber pots. Germination is aided by using a heat mat under the pots to warm the soil, as well as a clear plastic dome to provide a humid environment.
Once the seeds are up, remove the heat mat and grow the seedlings on in cooler temperatures. This will help keep the plants thick and stocky rather than thin and leggy.
It's extremely beneficial to use a grow light and reflector over the plants for optimum development. There are other gadgets for misting and watering the seedlings effectively. Label the seedlings with plastic or wooden markers.
Take advantage of the useful seed starting tips provided by the seed companies, such as those provided free by Colorado-based Botanic Interests. Also consider reading books specifically about growing annuals and vegetables economically and effectively.
With just a bit of practice, you'll have a whole crop of healthy seedlings to plant out soon.
Products in this segment are courtesy of Tagawa Gardens.