Garden resources I use
Over the years, I’ve learned that the right tools really do make a difference — they save time, feel good to use, last longer, and often save money in the long run.
Here you’ll find gardening supplies I personally trust and use in my own garden and with clients to grow healthy vegetables and flowers. Whenever possible, I encourage sourcing locally.
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Seed Starting Essentials
Starting seeds indoors doesn’t require complicated equipment — just a few well-chosen tools. Below are the seed-starting essentials I personally use to grow strong, healthy flower and vegetable seedlings.
Many basics, such as soil, trays, compost, and seeds can be found at local nurseries. I’ve linked a few harder-to-source items that I use and trust.


You don’t need fancy grow lights — standard 4-foot long shop lights work beautifully for seedlings.
Standalone lights (small setups)
A great option for beginners or smaller seed-starting setups.
Sturdy 4-foot wire shelves that hold a lot of seedlings and last for years.
I was on the fence about this one for a long time — and now I love it. It makes watering seedlings gentle, even, and much easier.
Heat mat with digital thermostat
Not essential, but very helpful for faster, more reliable germination.
Knowing the room temperature makes a big difference when growing seedlings indoors.
These markers hold up outdoors and don’t fade or wash off like regular markers — a simple upgrade I wish I had made sooner.
Affordable, sharp, and versatile — perfect for pinching seedlings and harvesting flowers and food.
Liquid fertilizer (fish or seaweed)
I use organic fish or seaweed fertilizer — available locally or online. I start feeding once seedlings have true leaves for stronger, healthier growth.