A method involving the early cultivation of plants indoors before transplanting them to their final outdoor location is often employed. This technique gives seedlings a head start, protecting them from harsh weather conditions and pests during their vulnerable initial growth stages. The phrase refers to the process and materials necessary to germinate seeds in a controlled environment, before the main growing season.
This horticultural practice offers significant advantages, including extending the growing season, ensuring higher germination rates, and optimizing resource allocation. Historically, this method allowed gardeners and farmers to cultivate crops in regions with shorter growing seasons or unpredictable climates. The ability to nurture seedlings in a controlled environment reduces crop losses and increases overall yields.