If you’re new to growing from seed, it’s very normal to run into problems. Most beginner mistakes come from a few simple areas like watering, depth, light, and timing. Once you understand these, seed starting becomes much easier and more predictable.
Below are the most common issues new growers face and how to prevent each one. At the end of each section is how Push N’Grow solves or simplifies the problem when applicable.
1. Planting Seeds Too Deep or Too Shallow
Depth is one of the biggest reasons seeds fail to sprout.
Too deep, and they run out of energy before reaching the surface.
Too shallow, and they dry out or get dislodged.
What to do instead:
Follow the “2 to 3 times the seed’s diameter” rule. Indoors this is easy, because soil conditions are controlled and consistent.
How Push N’Grow helps:
Each seed stick sets a depth-guided placement based on the recommended sowing depth for that seed. Beginners don’t have to measure or guess.
2. Overwatering or Underwatering
Watering is the number one beginner mistake.
Too much water suffocates seeds and encourages mold.
Too little water stops germination entirely.
What to do instead:
Moisten soil evenly. Indoors, water lightly but consistently so the top stays damp without turning soggy.
How Push N’Grow helps:
The included coco coir discs absorb water evenly, and the small starter pots make it easy to see moisture levels at a glance.
3. Using the Wrong Soil Mix
Garden soil is too dense for indoor seed starting. It compacts easily and starves roots of oxygen.
What to do instead:
Always start seeds in a loose, airy mix such as coco coir or seed-starting mix.
How Push N’Grow helps:
Every growing kit includes coco coir, which is ideal for aeration, moisture retention, and quick root establishment.
4. Not Enough Light (Leggy Seedlings)
Weak, stretched seedlings happen when light is too far away or too dim.
What to do instead:
Provide strong light from above for 12 to 16 hours daily.
If the seedlings stretch, the light is too weak or too far.
How Push N’Grow helps:
The small starter pots allow you to position seedlings directly under a bright window or grow light without shading each other.
5. Starting Seeds Too Early or Too Late
Timing affects transplant success.
Start too early and seedlings outgrow their pots.
Start too late and plants may not reach maturity outdoors.
What to do instead:
Use a simple rule: count backward from your region’s frost date based on the seed’s recommended start time.
How Push N’Grow helps:
Each seed stick includes clear instructions so beginners know exactly when to start indoors.
6. Leaving Seedlings in Small Pots Too Long
Small biodegradable pots are meant for early growth only.
If roots outgrow the pot, the plant slows down or stops growing.
What to do instead:
Transplant once the seedling has a few sets of true leaves.
How Push N’Grow helps:
Because the starter pots break down more slowly than roots grow, instructions clearly explain when to remove or cut away the pot before transplanting.
7. Using Old or Low-Vigor Seeds
Older seeds lose energy and may sprout slowly or not at all.
What to do instead:
Check your seed packet date and store seeds in a cool, dry place.
How Push N’Grow helps:
Every stick uses fresh, high-vigor seeds sealed and pre-positioned for reliable sprouting.
8. Ignoring Temperature Needs
Some seeds need warmth to germinate. Cool rooms slow everything down.
What to do instead:
Keep seed trays in a warm spot until sprouting occurs.
How Push N’Grow helps:
The controlled depth and coco coir help maintain consistent moisture, which improves germination even in slightly cooler rooms.
Seed Starting Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated
Beginners struggle mostly because of depth, watering, soil, light, and timing. Once these pieces are clear, success rates go way up.
Tools that simplify depth, orientation, soil quality, and early nutrition give new growers a stronger start without overwhelming them.