How to Choose the Right Seeds for Growing Plants: 5 Tips

One of the key aspects of a successful garden is choosing suitable seeds for growing plants. Thanks to the sheer variety of seeds available online and in local stores, picking the right seeds can be overwhelming, particularly for first-time growers. Should you go for heirloom or hybrid seeds? What grows best in your city’s weather? Can you trust what’s written on the packet?

We’ve put together this guide to help you choose the perfect seeds for your green space. Adopt these 5 simple yet effective tips, and your success rate of growing plants from seeds will rise.

1. Choose seeds that suit your local climate and season

Its'a essential to choose seeds that grow well in your region and microclimate

One of the biggest reasons seeds fail to germinate or thrive is planting them at the wrong time of year. Different crops grow in different seasons, so it’s important to choose varieties that match your local climate and current weather conditions.

For example, if you’re gardening during the summer, choose seeds of heat-loving plants like okra, chillies, or basil. During the cooler months, leafy greens like spinach and mustard thrive. Always check the planting calendar on seed packets to know whether the plant is suitable for warm or cool seasons.

Also, consider your microclimate. A sunny terrace will support a wider variety of plants than a shaded balcony, so choose seeds accordingly.

Read our blog for ideas on the best vegetables to grow in the monsoon.

2. Pick the right variety for small or vertical spaces

Coriander growing from seeds in a flat tray

Urban gardeners often work with limited space, so seed variety matters. You can opt for dwarf, bush, or compact varieties that grow well in containers. For example, choose patio tomatoes instead of sprawling indeterminate types. Leafy greens, chillies, radishes, and herbs like coriander or mint are excellent for small pots.

Utilise vertical space by growing climbers, such as beans, gourds, or cucumbers, on trellises. It will help you maximise yield without cluttering your floor area.

3. Choose heirloom or organic seeds when possible

Pick heirloom or organic seeds for growing plants if you want a chemical-free terrace garden

Heirloom seeds are those that have been grown and passed down for generations. They are known for their resilience and ability to reproduce true to type. If you’d like to try seed saving, heirlooms are your best bet.

On the other hand, organic seeds are those from plants grown without chemical fertilisers and harmful pesticides. For those who want a chemical-free kitchen garden, starting with organic seeds ensures your plants stay truly organic from the root up.

Buy from trusted sellers or certified seed banks. Local nurseries and organic gardening groups are also great sources of high-quality seeds.

What about hybrid seeds? They are created by cross-pollinating two different plant varieties to combine the best traits of both—like faster growth or disease resistance. While hybrids can offer excellent yields, their seeds typically won’t grow true in the next generation, so they’re not ideal if you plan to save seeds.

4. Test seed viability with a simple soak method

Soaking seeds helps identify viable seeds that will likely grow successfully

Not all seeds in a packet may be viable, especially if they’re old or stored improperly. Before planting, you can do a quick viability test at home by soaking the seeds in a bowl of water for around 15-10 minutes. Viable seeds usually sink, while those that float are less likely to germinate.

While this isn’t 100% accurate for all seed types, it’s a handy trick for first-time growers to avoid disappointment.

5. Read the label and research the seller

Always read the labels and instructions to identify the ideal seeds for growing plants

Before buying seeds, don’t ignore the fine print. Reputable seed sellers will list:

Germination rate
The expiry or packed-on date
Sowing depth and spacing
Sunlight and watering needs

For beginners, it’s a good idea to choose seeds labelled as “easy to grow” or “ideal for containers.” Also, check online reviews of the seed brand or seller to get an idea of the germination success other gardeners have had.

Happy growing!

When growing plants from seeds, whether spinach in buckets or tomatoes in grow bags, good-quality seeds chosen with care are more likely to be successful. Keep the space, sunlight, and season in mind, and don’t be afraid to experiment a little. With the right seeds and a bit of patience, your terrace garden will become your neighbour’s envy and your pride and joy.