growers do use heat pads underneath the starting trays.
The added warmth in the growing medium can speed
up the germination process, but for most seeds, it is not
necessary. Using supplemental lighting, like a T5 fluorescent bulb, can also help provide extra heat. Though seeds
may not need light to germinate, the coming seedling will
surely need light, so having a light source ready to go is a
good idea. I would advise against starting seeds in a bright
windowsill because the glass can alter the intensity of the
sunlight and the plants may stretch and become leggy.
Most seeds will germinate at average room temperature, but some
growers use heat pads underneath the starting trays.
I suggest lightly moistening the growing medium before
planting any seeds. This will help to ensure that the
medium is not over-saturated or waterlogged and that the
moisture is spread evenly throughout. Using the eraser side
of a pencil or the tip of your pinky finger, carefully make
small divots in the medium at the desired planting depth.
Many plants require a depth of around one-quarter inch,
but