How to Start Hemp Seeds Indoors: Light, Warmth & Early Seedling Care

There’s a special feeling in watching your first hemp sprout push through soil — it’s like the beginning of a story. Starting indoors gives your plants a strong head start.

The Ideal Setup

You don’t need fancy equipment — just the basics:

• Seed-starting trays or small pots

• Light potting soil (airy and well-draining)

• Humidity dome

• Gentle grow light

• Heat mat (optional but helpful)

Planting the Seeds

Hemp seeds like shallow planting. Push them roughly ¼" deep, lightly cover with soil, and mist with water. Not drenched — just moist enough to encourage germination.

Light & Warmth

Sprouts crave warmth and gentle light.

• Keep temperatures around 70–80°F

• Use a small LED or fluorescent grow light

• Keep the light 4–6 inches above seedlings

• Run lights 18 hours on / 6 hours off

This prevents “stretching,” where the sprout grows tall and thin from weak lighting.

Watering

This is where beginners slip up.

• Water lightly

• Let soil dry slightly before watering again

• Never soak the soil

• Seedlings hate “wet feet”

Hardening Off

Before transplanting outdoors, gradually introduce seedlings to sunlight over 7–10 days. This prevents shock and strengthens stems.

Happy seedlings = healthy plants.