How early can you start planting seeds indoors for gardening?
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Darla Taylor
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What zone are you in Darla? Typically people start their seeds 6 - 8 weeks before it is time to set them out in the garden according to their zones anticipated last frost date.
https://planthardiness.ars.usda.gov/PHZMWeb/
If you have a grow light you can start at any time. I am in zone 9 and start my seeds just after the first of the year as I need to get my hands dirty! Then I transfer to pots and then to ground or bigger pot depending on what I am growing.
Usually about two months before planting out in the Spring. Check the packages for germination time since some seeds take longer than others to germinate so you need to allow for this.
Feb or March for things like tomato, peppers. Things like melons usually don't transplant well. Some squash, cooked salads, onions, potatoes can be planted in the garden in March (in VA).
A general rule of thumb is 6-8 weeks before your last expected frost date. This varies by zone, so be sure to figure out which zone you're in. Good luck! I have a free seed starting schedule you can print: https://thekitchengarten.com/printable-seed-starting-schedule/