If you’re starting tiny seeds in spring, ditch the fancy kits and stick to what actually works. Use a seed tray with a single layer of good‑quality potting mix that’s fine‑grained and drains well—nothing too heavy. A 50/50 blend of peat and perlite or vermiculite is solid. Add a light touch of compost or a balanced micro‑fertilizer (¼ teaspoon per liter) to give a slow feed without risking burn. Fill the tray to about 1–2 cm deep; don’t go too deep or the roots won’t get enough oxygen. Plant the seeds a half‑inch apart, or as the seed packet recommends, to avoid crowding. Cover lightly with the same mix, then press down gently so the seed touches the soil. Mist with a spray bottle to keep it moist but not waterlogged; you’ll want the surface to stay damp. Place the tray in a warm spot—ideally 20–25 °C (68–77 °F)—and keep it out of direct, harsh sunlight until the seedlings emerge. Once they’re a few centimeters tall, rotate the tray so all sides get equal light, or move it under a grow light set to 12–14 hours a day. When the seedlings have their first set of true leaves, transplant them into individual pots with the same mix. Keep the soil consistently moist but never soggy, and start feeding with a weak diluted fertilizer if you notice any signs of stunted growth. Stick to this routine, and you’ll get a repeatable, reliable spring start without any gimmicks.