Starting with good-quality, new potting mix is the best way to ensure your plants get started off right. When plants are young they’re the most susceptible to diseases, and these diseases more often than not will show up first in the soil, especially if they’ve had plant growth in them in years past. To avoid this, it’s best to start your seeds in a sterile, soilless potting mix. Look for types that are specifically blended for seed starting. You may spend a little more for your soil, but you will be rewarded with happier, healthier plants.

If you want to blend your own, you can make a basic mix with 60% coconut coir, 10% perlite, 10% vermiculite, and 20% sand. And if you want to go real pro, you can make soil blocks to eliminate the chances of your seedlings getting root-bound.