When To Use Seeds Vs. Seedlings Based On Your Gardening Goals

One of the first decisions you'll make for your garden is whether to start it from seeds or buy seedlings from the nursery that have already been started for you. Both options come with their own set of benefits and risks. The key benefits of starting seeds are that they're affordable and usually available for a wider variety of species, but germination rates can be low and some of those that do sprout might fail to thrive. So, the risk of failure is higher compared to nursery-grown seedlings, especially for less experienced gardeners. That makes it a valuable learning experience, but maybe not one you want if your goal is achieving a beautiful garden more so than honing your gardening skills.

Buying seedlings lets you bypass the slow and fragile germination stage, giving you the garden of your dreams faster and with less effort. But they typically cost more than a packet of seeds, and you're limited to the selection of plants that the nursery deems in-demand enough to be worth the time and resources required to grow seedlings. So, should you sow seeds directly in the ground or buy ready-to-plant seedlings from your local nursery? If you want to save money or are looking for specific plant varieties, seeds are the best option. When an earlier harvest is the goal or you want to get a head start on a big project, seedlings are a better choice.

If your goal is a low-cost garden, use seeds. In fact, some libraries maintain free seed libraries, usually on the condition that you gather some seeds from your harvest to restock the library's seed collection. This is also the best option for people who want to plant less common species that can be hard to find as seedlings. Finally, seeds are the way to go for planting a large area. If you're creating a wildflower meadow or groundcover, it's easier to scatter seed on the ground than it is to dig dozens of individual holes for plugs.

If you're willing to spend a bit more, opt for seedlings. Buying plants that have already been started gives you a head start on the growing season. Seedlings are also a great choice for beginners. When you're still getting the hang of what "moist, not wet" really means or how to prep your soil, a more mature plant will be more forgiving of your mistakes than a seed. Finally, choose seedlings when you're planting a slower-growing species. If you want to plant a hedge for privacy or a tree, starting with a seedling that's already a couple of years old will save you time.

Buying seeds and starting them indoors is a great middle road between the first two choices. You get the affordability and variety of buying seeds along with the ability to create an instant garden the moment it's ready to be transplanted.