Organic Grow Kits FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Use the navigation panel on the left to find frequently asked questions for all planter varieties.

Not finding what you need? Reach out to us directly at contact@backtotheroots.com - we're here for you!

SETUP

Product Components
Placement
Planting

ONGOING CARE

Watering
Thinning
Fertilizing and Pollinating
Harvesting

TROUBLESHOOTING

Find the Perfect Spot for your Tomatoes
Leaves and Growth
Watering Concerns
Miscellaneous

LOSE YOUR INSTRUCTION CARD?

Download a digital version of the Tomato Planter Instruction Card by clicking on the image below!

GROW ONE, GIVE ONE

Did you notice our Grow One, Give One campaign on your Planter? At Back to the Roots, we're a small, passionate team on a mission to reconnect families back to where food comes from. As part of that mission, for every Indoor Gardening Kit product you post a photo with, we'll donate the same product & a custom curriculum to an elementary school classroom of your choice! Learn more and send us your photo at BacktotheRoots.com/GiveOne

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

SETUP

Product Components

Jar

Why does it come in a glass jar?

• We use clear glass because it lets you watch the roots of the plant develop and see how moist your soil is for assessing your plant’s watering needs. The glass jar is also fully reusable and recyclable; after your final harvest you can compost the soil, wash the jar and use it for something else!

Can my tomato plant really grow in a small container?

• Yes it can! We created this Tomato Planter with the proper seeds and soil blend to grow in this environment. Make sure to put your planter in a space with ample sunlight – one of the most important aspects of getting your plant to thrive!

Why does my jar lid have holes?

• It has holes to let the soil blend breathe before you use it. Plants love soil that contains air pockets, so the lid helps keep the soil ready to go while it’s waiting to become your garden.

What do I do with the lid after opening?

• The lid is made of aluminum and can easily be recycled just like a soda can, or can be upcycled into a dish or something else useful.

Soil

What is your soil made of?

• Our soil is a custom formulated blend of nutrient-rich ingredients such as up-cycled agricultural byproducts like coconut coir.

Is your soil organic?

• Yes! Our soil blend is made of 100% organic materials certified for use in organic gardening by OMRI, sourced from and blended in the United States.

What are the white specs in the soil?

• The white chunks are called perlite and they help to aerate the soil by creating air pockets where good microbe life can live and breathe.

Seed Packet

Are these seeds organic?

• Yes! 100% organic, certified by EcoCert ICO

Are these seeds Non-GMO?

• Yes, all of our seeds are Non-GMO.

I think you gave me too many seeds.

• Those are our gift to you! Be sure to save them for a second planting or use them in another container to grow more plants!

What kind of tomatoes are these?

• They’re a “dwarf” variety of the cherry tomato plant that are smaller than other tomato varieties - perfect for growing indoors.

Fertilizer Spikes

What are these for?

• Your planter comes with two fertilizer spikes to give your plant extra nutrients at important stages of plant growth. Insert one fertilizer spike into the soil when a) you see flowers b) when you see fruit. Refer to the Fertilizing FAQ for more information.

Are they Organic?

• Absolutely! 100% organic.

Placement

Where in my home should I put my planter?

• Your planter will do best in a south-facing window with full sun (8 hours per day). If you don’t have a window that gets lots of light, it may be best to use a grow light (available for purchase here). Learn more about how to find the perfect spot for your planter in our troubleshooting section.

What’s the best temperature for my planter to grow in?

• Your planter will grow well in normal room temperature (70-75 °F, 21-24 °C). Keep in mind that in higher temperatures, your planter will need more water to keep growing. Additionally, if temperatures are below 60 degrees most of the day, your seeds may be slow to germinate.

Planting

Should I water my soil first or plant my seeds first?

• First step is to dampen your soil with 1 cup of water before you begin planting you seeds. If you mixed up the steps, don’t worry! Just be sure that your seeds are covered in soil after the water has soaked in.

How many seeds do I need to plant?

• We recommend planting 4-6 seeds spaced evenly around the jar opening. If you planted the whole packet already, no problem. You may just have a few more seedlings to trim in the next couple of weeks.

Why push the seeds ¼” (.6 cm) into the soil?

• Your seeds need a warm, moist environment to germinate, and the light ¼” blanket of soil is perfect for that. If left uncovered, the seeds may not be moist enough to sprout, but push them too far into the soil and they may never have the chance to peek their heads up. We’ve found that ¼” is the goldilocks of depths – not too shallow, not too deep, but just right!

How long is ¼” (.6 cm)?

• Use the width of your pinky nail as an estimate for ¼”.

What will happen to my seeds when they germinate?

• The germination process is the very beginning of your seeds turning into full plants. From Day 7 to Day 14 of growing you should start to see small seedlings appearing from underneath the soil and begin turning into sprouts.

My seeds are taking longer than 2 weeks to germinate

• Our seed packets state that seeds should germinate within 2 weeks. If that’s not the case for you it may be due to non ideal environmental conditions. If temperatures are below 60 degrees for most of the day or if your jar isn’t getting much light, your seeds may germinate slowly or not at all. This is why we’ve given you extra seeds! Try planting the leftover seeds for better luck. If none of these tips work for you, just give us a call; we’ll replace your seeds, or even your whole planter if needed, at no charge: (510) 922-9758.

Do I need to transplant my tomato plant into a larger container?

• No transplanting is necessary. Your tomato plant will have plenty of room to grow inside the jar. We actually recommend not transplanting your plant, as the roots may get damaged in the process.

 Back to Top

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

ONGOING CARE

Watering

How much water do my tomatoes need?

• Depending on how warm your home is and how much direct light your planter gets, the time between waterings will vary. Peer through your mason jar to check the soil color - as it dries out it will turn a lighter shade of brown. That is your cue to add more water!
  Additionally, when your seedlings are small, you will water less frequently than when your plant is larger - so stay vigilant and check your plant often!

When I initially watered my soil for set up, the water didn’t sink into the soil right away and there were lots of bubbles. Should I be concerned?

• Sometimes this happens because of air pockets throughout the soil or when soil gets dry in drier conditions. You can poke the top 1-2” of the soil with a fork to help get the water to soak through faster.

Thinning

How do I thin my plant?

• When 3" tall, plants should be thinned to 3 stems. First add a bit of water to the soil to soften. Next, carefully pull out stems by the part of the stem closest to the soil, being cautious to avoid disturbing other plants. When plants reach 5" tall, repeat the same process to thin to 1 plant.

Thinning to 3 stems after initial growth, and then thinning further to 2 stems once plants have grown a bit taller

• Another method you can use is to cut the excess stems with scissors as close to the soil as possible. With this method, you may need to continually trim these stems to prevent them from regrowing – keep an eye out!

Will thinning hurt my plant?

• Nope! It helps the plant by reducing the competition between germinating sprouts for nutrients and soil space in the planter.

Why is thinning necessary?

• In order to have enough space for the roots to grow, and for the plant to grow into a healthy, mature plant to continually harvest from.

What happens if I forgot to thin my plants?

• You can still remove excess plants by trimming using the method mentioned above.

Fertilizing and Pollinating

What are the fertilizer spikes?

• The spikes are made of organic growing material and provide extra nutrients for your plant in critical growth stages: flowering stage and fruiting stage. Learn more about the spikes from our partner, Jobe’s Organics.

When do I use the fertilizer spikes?

• We provide two for your planter. The first one should be inserted when flower blossoms have opened, and the second when fruits begin to appear. Insert them into the surface of the soil away from the main stem of the plant, about an inch deep - just like this:

What if I forgot to fertilize my plant right as it flowered?

• The exact timing of adding your fertilizer is not critical – just add the spike as instructed and your fruit should show up shortly!

When is my plant ready to pollinate?

• When yellow or white flowers bud on your plant like the ones pictured below, it is ready to self-pollinate!

How do I help my plant to self-pollinate?

• After your plant’s flowers have opened, gently tap the base of your plant stems for 30 seconds to encourage self-pollination. To ensure pollination, do this at least twice on different days.

What is self-pollination?

• Certain plants, like your tomatoes, have the ability to self-pollinate. So instead of relying on bees or other pollinators to move pollen from flowers and promote fruit growth, the seed variety we provide grows flower blossoms that have both male and female parts. That’s why it’s important to tap the base of your plant stems, which will gently agitate the plant to move pollen where it needs to go to spur fruit!

Harvesting

When should I harvest the fruits of my labor?

• Harvest times vary based on growing conditions, but around three months into growing is when cherry tomatoes will start to appear. At first they’ll be green and quite tough so don’t harvest yet! Add your 2nd fertilizer spike at this time and wait for the fruits to turn almost completely red. Fruits may ripen at different times on the same plant, so be patient and wait for that color change before picking. If you’re looking to eat the tomato right away, make sure you pick a fully-red one!

How big are my tomatoes supposed to be?

• Your tomatoes can vary in size, even on the same vine! In general, they grow to the size of grapes and will taste nice and sweet.

Two tomatoes plucked from the same vine.

Can I eat my tomatoes right away?

• If you harvest your cherry tomatoes when they're fully red, they’re ready to eat! If you pick them while they have a slight orange hue, wait an extra day or so for the tomatoes to ripen to a bright red. Make sure to wash them before you eat!

How long will my tomatoes last after picking?

• After your harvest, we suggest eating your tomatoes within a week. Store them in a cool place on your counter - not the fridge!

What kind of meals can I create with these tomatoes?

• Cherry tomatoes are a great addition to any mixed green salad, or you can eat them alone as a healthy snack. If you’re feeling ambitious, check out this Lemon Garlic Chicken or Roasted Salmon recipes that incorporate cherry tomatoes!

 Back to Top

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

TROUBLESHOOTING

Find the Perfect Spot for your Tomatoes

Your planter will thrive in a spot in your home that gets 8+ hours of direct sunlight each day. Most of the time, this will be in a south-facing window - but why is that the case? What's the next best option if that isn't available? How can I tell if my sunlight is direct? All very valid questions! Let's start with the basics:

Why do I need to place my plant in a south-facing window?

• For those of us in the Northern Hemisphere, south-facing windows will receive the most direct sunlight throughout the day. Whether during the Summer or Winter months, the sun's daily path starts in the East, swings South, and then sets in the West. Placing your plants in south-facing windows will expose them to day-long sunshine and help them grow as strong as possible! Not sure which direction is south? Check your phone - most smart phones now include a digital compass app built in!
  Note: if you live in the Southern Hemisphere, the sun's path - as well as your seasons - are mirrored, so north-facing windows are best for plant growth.

The sun travels East to West along a curved path that swings South. During the winter,
the sun appears lower in the sky, but south-facing windows still get plenty of direct light.

What should I do if I do not have a south-facing window?

• While east-facing and west-facing windows are your next best options, plant growth will be noticeably diminished without the full sun of a south-facing window. We recommend supplementing the natural light from a east- or west-facing window with a grow light. We sell one on our site here! Try your best to avoid placing your plants in a north-facing window, where natural light alone will not be enough to sustain growth. Check out the photo below - the plant on the right was grown in a south-facing window, while the one on the left was grown in a north-facing window. Huge difference, right!? In this situation, a grow light will drastically increase plant health and allow it to flourish.

A Tale of Two Windows - basil grown in a north-facing (left) and south-facing (right) environment.
Light is the most important determining factor in successful plant growth!

How do i determine how direct my light is?

• Short of purchasing a light meter, determining exactly how much light your plants will receive can be difficult. Fortunately, there's a low-tech way of measuring your light intensity with a 'shadow test'!

1. Around mid-day, place your hand ~1ft above where your plant will sit and spread your fingers wide.
2. Look at the shadow cast by your hand. A well-defined shadow means your light is strong, while fuzzier and fainter shadows mean you may need to supplement it with a grow light.

With your hand just above the proposed plant location, examine your shadow to determine if you have direct light (like the left image) or indirect light (on the right).

Leaves and Growth

The leaves on my plant are yellowing

• If this happens as the plants are producing fruit, it’s a sign that the soil’s nutrients are being redirected to the tomatoes for ripening. Feel free to snap off the yellow leaves from the plant.

• Leaves yellow for a variety of reasons, but in our planters the most common reason is the amount of water the plant is getting. It seems confusing, but yellowing can be a result of too much or too little water! Check how damp your soil is and adjust your watering schedule so that the soil remains dark but doesn’t become waterlogged. If soil is a very light brown color and the leaves of your plant are droopy, it’s probably too dry. If your soil is very dark and wet looking, it’s probably too wet. Feel free to send us a picture and we’ll have our plant doctors will do your best to help you diagnose the problem!  

The leaves on my plant are droopy

• This indicates that the plant is being under watered, and would appreciate a nice drink of water. A few hours after watering, you should notice that the leaves are perked back up.

My plant is small and hasn’t grown much since it first sprouted

• After the initial germination, the plant takes a while to grow to a full plant from which fruits can be harvested. This process can range from 2-3 months! Be patient and continue to ensure that its daily sunlight and water needs are met. Remember that your tomatoes like to be warmer – 70 to 75 °F (21-24 °C) during the day, with plenty of sun. Little sprouts don’t need too much water early on so unless they look particularly droopy and aren’t standing up straight, stay on the recommended watering schedule.

I have many little plants, but none that are growing very big

• You should thin to 2 plants so nutrients are concentrated and so that they can grow tall and strong. If you’ve already thinned your plant, just be patient! You may want to try changing the location of your planter so that it gets more sunlight.

Watering Concerns

What is the green stuff appearing in my soil, around the shoulders of the jar and the sides? 

• The green stuff is algae, which thrives in moist environments while also having lots of direct sunlight. This isn’t detrimental to plant growth but if you want to reduce algal growth, place your planter where it can receive indirect sunlight for a few days or reduce watering to allow algae to recede.

I think I overwatered, what should I do?

• The best visual indicator of overwatering is when you tilt the jar to its side and see lots of water sloshing around. You can carefully invert the jar to help drain the water from the soil, and wait until the soil appears to be dry, a few days, before watering again.

There are small flies around my planter, how do I get rid of them?

• Soil gnats and fruit flies are common indoors when moisture is present, for example when a cup of water left uncovered or in your case, with damp soil. We recommend watering less frequently so that the soil is less moist.
• Alternatively, you can create a diluted soapy solution to spray the base of your plants with. Don’t worry – this won’t harm your plant. Here’s a link to our favorite homemade recipe.

Miscellaneous

Why does my jar lid have holes?

• It has holes to let the soil blend breathe before you use it. Plants love soil that contains air pockets, so the lid helps keep the soil ready to go while it’s waiting to become your garden.

What do I do with the lid after opening?

• The lid is made of aluminum and can easily be recycled just like a soda can, or can be upcycled into a dish or something else useful.

Can I replant something else in this jar?

• The soil in our planters contain just enough nutrients to provide one full growth cycle for your tomatoes, so we do not recommend replanting in the original soil. What you can do is empty the soil that’s leftover into a garden or compost bin, and reuse the jar with new soil and new seeds for a new plant!

 Back to Top

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

SETUP

Product Components
Placement
Planting

ONGOING CARE

Watering
Thinning
Fertilizing and Pollinating
Harvesting

TROUBLESHOOTING

Find the Perfect Spot for your Chili Peppers
Leaves and Growth
Watering Concerns
Miscellaneous

LOSE YOUR INSTRUCTION CARD?

Download a digital version of the Chili Planter Instruction Card by clicking on the image below!

GROW ONE, GIVE ONE

Did you notice our Grow One, Give One campaign on your kit? At Back to the Roots, we're a small, passionate team on a mission to reconnect families back to where food comes from. As part of that mission, for every Indoor Gardening Kit product you post a photo with, we'll donate the same product & a custom curriculum to an elementary school classroom of your choice! Learn more and send us your photo at BacktotheRoots.com/GiveOne

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

SETUP

Product Components

Jar

Why does it come in a glass jar?

• We use clear glass because it lets you watch the roots of the plant develop and see how moist your soil is for assessing your plant’s watering needs. The glass jar is also fully reusable and recyclable; after your final harvest you can compost the soil, wash the jar and use it for something else!

Can my pepper plant really grow in a small container?

• Yes it can! We created this planter with the proper seeds and soil blend to grow in this environment. Make sure to put your planter in a space with ample sunlight – one of the most important aspects of getting your plant to thrive!

Why does my jar lid have holes?

• It has holes to let the soil blend breathe before you use it. Plants love soil that contains air pockets, so the lid helps keep the soil ready to go while it’s waiting to become your garden.

What do I do with the lid after opening?

• The lid is made of aluminum and can easily be recycled just like a soda can, or can be upcycled into a dish or something else useful.

Soil

What is your soil made of?

• Our soil is a custom formulated blend of nutrient-rich ingredients such as up-cycled agricultural byproducts like coconut coir.

Is your soil organic?

• Yes! Our soil blend is made of 100% organic materials certified for use in organic gardening by OMRI, sourced from and blended in the United States.

Seed Packet

Are these seeds organic?

• Yes! 100% organic, certified by EcoCert ICO

Are these seeds Non-GMO?

• Yes, all of our seeds are Non-GMO.

I think you gave me too many seeds.

• Those are our gift to you! Be sure to save them for a second planting or use them in another container to grow more peppers.

What kind of peppers are these?

• These are a candlelight chili pepper variety that will grow grow compact, bushy plants - making them an excellent variety for your planter! They have a mild level of spice.

Fertilizer Spikes

What are these for?

• Your planter comes with two fertilizer spikes to give your plant extra nutrients at important stages of plant growth. Insert one fertilizer spike into the soil when a) you see flowers b) when you see fruit. Refer to the Fertilizing FAQ for more information.

Are they Organic?

• Absolutely! 100% organic.

Placement

Where in my home should I put my planter?

• Your planter will do best in a south-facing window with full sun (8 hours per day). If you don’t have a window that gets lots of light, it may be best to use a grow light (available for purchase here). Learn more about how you find the perfect spot for your plant in our troubleshooting section.

What’s the best temperature for my planter to grow in?

• Your planter will grow well in normal room temperature (70-75 °F, 21-24 °C). Keep in mind that in higher temperatures, your planter will need more water to keep growing. Additionally, if temperatures are below 60 degrees most of the day, your seeds may be slow to germinate.

Planting

Should I water my soil first or plant my seeds first?

• First step is to dampen your soil with 1 cup of water before you begin planting you seeds. If you mixed up the steps, don’t worry! Just be sure that your seeds are covered in soil after the water has soaked in.

How many seeds do I need to plant?

• We recommend planting 4-6 seeds spaced evenly around the jar opening. If you planted the whole packet already, no problem. You may just have a few more seedlings to trim in the next couple of weeks.

My seed packet has more than 6 seeds - what do I do with them?

• Our seed packets always come with extra seeds for you to save for another planter of yours!

Why push the seeds ¼” (.6 cm) into the soil?

• Your seeds need a warm, moist environment to germinate, and the light ¼” blanket of soil is perfect for that. If left uncovered, the seeds may not be moist enough to sprout, but push them too far into the soil and they may never have the chance to peek their heads up. We’ve found that ¼” is the goldilocks of depths – not too shallow, not too deep, but just right!

How long is ¼” (.6 cm)?

• Use the width of your pinky nail as an estimate for ¼”.

What will happen to my seeds when they germinate?

• The germination process is the very beginning of your seeds turning into full plants. From Day 7 to Day 14 of growing you should start to see small seedlings appearing from underneath the soil and begin turning into sprouts.

My seeds are taking longer than 2 weeks to germinate

• Our seed packets state that seeds should germinate within 2 weeks. If that’s not the case for you it may be due to non ideal environmental conditions. If temperatures are below 60 degrees for most of the day or if your jar isn’t getting much light, your seeds may germinate slowly or not at all. This is why we’ve given you extra seeds! Try planting the leftover seeds for better luck. If none of these tips work for you, just give us a call; we’ll replace your seeds, or even your whole planter if needed, at no charge: (510) 922-9758.

Do I need to transplant my pepper plant into a larger container?

• No transplanting is necessary. Your pepper plant will have plenty of room to grow inside the jar. We actually recommend not transplanting your plant, as the roots may get damaged in the process.

 Back to Top

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

ONGOING CARE

Watering

How much water do my chilis need?

• Depending on how warm your home is and how much direct light your planter gets, the time between waterings will vary. Peer through your mason jar to check the soil color - as it dries out it will turn a lighter shade of brown. That is your cue to add more water!
  Additionally, when your seedlings are small, you will water less frequently than when your plant is larger - so stay vigilant and check your plant often!

When I initially watered my soil for set up, the water didn’t sink into the soil right away and there were lots of bubbles. Should I be concerned?

• Sometimes this happens because of air pockets throughout the soil or when soil gets dry in drier conditions. You can poke the top 1-2” of the soil with a fork to help get the water to soak through faster.

Thinning

How do I thin my plant?

• When 3" tall, plants should be thinned to 3 stems. First add a bit of water to the soil to soften. Next, carefully pull out stems by the part of the stem closest to the soil, being cautious to avoid disturbing other plants. When plants reach 5" tall, repeat the same process to thin to 1 plant.

Thinning to 3 stems after initial growth, and then thinning further to 2 stems once plants have grown a bit taller

SETUP

Product Components
Placement
Planting

ONGOING CARE

Watering
Thinning
Fertilizing and Pollinating
Harvesting

TROUBLESHOOTING

Find the Perfect Spot for your Shishito Peppers
Leaves and Growth
Watering Concerns
Miscellaneous

LOSE YOUR INSTRUCTION CARD?

Download a digital version of the Instruction Card by clicking on the image below!

GROW ONE, GIVE ONE

Did you notice our Grow One, Give One campaign on your kit? At Back to the Roots, we're a small, passionate team on a mission to reconnect families back to where food comes from. As part of that mission, for every Indoor Gardening Kit product you post a photo with, we'll donate the same product & a custom curriculum to an elementary school classroom of your choice! Learn more and send us your photo at BacktotheRoots.com/GiveOne

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

SETUP

Product Components

Jar

Why does it come in a glass jar?

• We use clear glass because it lets you watch the roots of the plant develop and see how moist your soil is for assessing your plant’s watering needs. The glass jar is also fully reusable and recyclable; after your final harvest you can compost the soil, wash the jar and use it for something else!

Can my pepper plant really grow in a small container?

• Yes it can! We created this planter with the proper seeds and soil blend to grow in this environment. Make sure to put your planter in a space with ample sunlight – one of the most important aspects of getting your plant to thrive!

Why does my jar lid have holes?

• It has holes to let the soil blend breathe before you use it. Plants love soil that contains air pockets, so the lid helps keep the soil ready to go while it’s waiting to become your garden.

What do I do with the lid after opening?

• The lid is made of aluminum and can easily be recycled just like a soda can, or can be upcycled into a dish or something else useful.

Soil

What is your soil made of?

• Our soil is a custom formulated blend of nutrient-rich ingredients such as up-cycled agricultural byproducts like coconut coir.

Is your soil organic?

• Yes! Our soil blend is made of 100% organic materials certified for use in organic gardening by OMRI, sourced from and blended in the United States.

Seed Packet

Are these seeds organic?

• Yes! 100% organic, certified by EcoCert ICO

Are these seeds Non-GMO?

• Yes, all of our seeds are Non-GMO.

I think you gave me too many seeds.

• Those are our gift to you! Be sure to save them for a second planting or use them in another container to grow more peppers.

What kind of peppers are these?

• These are shishito peppers - an East Asian pepper variety that’s almost always sweet. Be careful, though, one out of every ten peppers packs a bit of a kick!

Fertilizer Spikes

What are these for?

• Your planter comes with two fertilizer spikes to give your plant extra nutrients at important stages of plant growth. Insert one fertilizer spike into the soil when a) you see flowers b) when you see fruit. Refer to the Fertilizing FAQ for more information.

Are they Organic?

• Absolutely! 100% organic.

Placement

Where in my home should I put my planter?

• Your planter will do best in a south-facing window with full sun (8 hours per day). If you don’t have a window that gets lots of light, it may be best to use a grow light (available for purchase here). Learn more about how to find the perfect spot for your plant in our troubleshooting section.

What’s the best temperature for my planter to grow in?

• Your planter will grow well in normal room temperature (70-75 °F, 21-24 °C). Keep in mind that in higher temperatures, your planter will need more water to keep growing. Additionally, if temperatures are below 60 degrees most of the day, your seeds may be slow to germinate.

Planting

Should I water my soil first or plant my seeds first?

• First step is to dampen your soil with 1 cup of water before you begin planting you seeds. If you mixed up the steps, don’t worry! Just be sure that your seeds are covered in soil after the water has soaked in.

How many seeds do I need to plant?

• We recommend planting 4-6 seeds spaced evenly around the jar opening. If you planted the whole packet already, no problem. You may just have a few more seedlings to trim in the next couple of weeks.

My seed packet has more than 6 seeds - what do I do with them?

• Our seed packets always come with extra seeds for you to save for another planter of yours!

Why push the seeds ¼” (.6 cm) into the soil?

• Your seeds need a warm, moist environment to germinate, and the light ¼” blanket of soil is perfect for that. If left uncovered, the seeds may not be moist enough to sprout, but push them too far into the soil and they may never have the chance to peek their heads up. We’ve found that ¼” is the goldilocks of depths – not too shallow, not too deep, but just right!

How long is ¼” (.6 cm)?

• Use the width of your pinky nail as an estimate for ¼”.

What will happen to my seeds when they germinate?

• The germination process is the very beginning of your seeds turning into full plants. From Day 7 to Day 14 of growing you should start to see small seedlings appearing from underneath the soil and begin turning into sprouts.

My seeds are taking longer than 2 weeks to germinate

• Our seed packets state that seeds should germinate within 2 weeks. If that’s not the case for you it may be due to non ideal environmental conditions. If temperatures are below 60 degrees for most of the day or if your jar isn’t getting much light, your seeds may germinate slowly or not at all. This is why we’ve given you extra seeds! Try planting the leftover seeds for better luck. If none of these tips work for you, just give us a call; we’ll replace your seeds, or even your whole planter if needed, at no charge: (510) 922-9758.

Do I need to transplant my shishito pepper plant into a larger container?

• No transplanting is necessary. Your pepper plant will have plenty of room to grow inside the jar. We actually recommend not transplanting your plant, as the roots may get damaged in the process.

 Back to Top

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

ONGOING CARE

Watering

How much water do my peppers need?

• Depending on how warm your home is and how much direct light your planter gets, the time between waterings will vary. Peer through your mason jar to check the soil color - as it dries out it will turn a lighter shade of brown. That is your cue to add more water!
  Additionally, when your seedlings are small, you will water less frequently than when your plant is larger - so stay vigilant and check your plant often!

When I initially watered my soil for set up, the water didn’t sink into the soil right away and there were lots of bubbles. Should I be concerned?

• Sometimes this happens because of air pockets throughout the soil or when soil gets dry in drier conditions. You can poke the top 1-2” of the soil with a fork to help get the water to soak through faster.

Thinning

How do I thin my plant?

• When 3" tall, plants should be thinned to 3 stems. First add a bit of water to the soil to soften. Next, carefully pull out stems by the part of the stem closest to the soil, being cautious to avoid disturbing other plants. When plants reach 5" tall, repeat the same process to thin to 1 plant.

Thinning to 3 stems after initial growth, and then thinning further to 2 stems once plants have grown a bit taller

LAVENDER’S TOP ISSUE - GERMINATION

While it’s beautiful and fragrant, lavender can also be quite finicky to grow from seed — it definitely needs some extra care during its first 3-4 weeks! We’ve developed this detailed set of guidelines and tips that if followed closely will get you growing like a pro!
And as always - we’re here for you. If you have additional questions, reach out at contact@backtotheroots.com and our growing experts will be happy to assist!

SETUP

Product Components - What comes in my Windowsill Planter?
Placement - Where will my lavender grow best?
Planting - How do I start my Planter?

ONGOING CARE

Watering
Thinning
Fertilizing
Growth Questions

LOSE YOUR INSTRUCTION CARD?

Download a digital version of the Instruction Card by clicking on the image below!

GROW ONE, GIVE ONE

Did you notice our Grow One, Give One campaign on your Windowsill Planter? At Back to the Roots, we're a small, passionate team on a mission to reconnect families back to where food comes from. As part of that mission, for every Indoor Gardening Kit product you post a photo with, we'll donate the same product & a custom curriculum to an elementary school classroom of your choice! Just tag @backtotheroots and #GrowOneGiveOne when you share your photo on social media.

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

SETUP

Product Components

Jar

Why does it come in a glass jar?

• We use clear glass because it lets you watch the roots of the plant develop and see how moist your soil is for assessing your plant’s watering needs. The glass jar is also fully reusable and recyclable; after your final harvest you can compost the soil, wash the jar and use it for something else!

Can my lavender really grow in a small container?

• Yes it can! We created the Windowsill Lavender Planter with the proper seeds and soil blend to grow in this environment. Make sure to put your planter in a space with ample sunlight – one of the most important aspects of getting your plant to thrive!

Soil

What is your soil made of?

• Our soil is a custom formulated blend of nutrient-rich ingredients that balance holding enough moisture and allowing for good airflow.

Is your soil organic?

• Yes! Our soil blend is made of 100% organic materials certified for use in organic gardening by ​OMRI​, sourced from and blended in the United States.

Seed Packet

Are these seeds organic?

• Yes! 100% organic, certified by EcoCert ICO

Are these seeds Non-GMO?

• Yes, all of our seeds are non-GMO.

What kind of lavender am I growing?

• We provide Organic English Lavender seeds with your planter - latin name ​Lavandula Angustifolia Vera.

Fertilizer Spikes

What are these for?

• Your planter comes with two fertilizer spikes to give your plant extra nutrients at important stages of growth. Insert one fertilizer spike into the soil at 8 weeks, and the other when you see flowers!

Are they organic?

• Absolutely! 100% organic.

Placement

Where in my home should I put my lavender?

• Your lavender will thrive in a spot in your home that gets 8+ hours of direct sunlight each day. Most of the time, this will be in a south-facing window - but why is that the case? What's the next best option if that isn't available? How can I tell if my sunlight is direct? All very valid questions - read about finding optimal light for your Windowsill Planter!

What’s the best temperature for my lavender to grow in?

• Your planter will grow well in normal room temperature (70-75 ​°F)​. Keep in mind that in higher temperatures, your planter will need more water to keep growing. Additionally, if temperatures are below 60 degrees most of the day, your seeds may be slow to germinate and your plant may grow more slowly.

Planting

Should I water my soil first or plant my seeds first?

• First step is to dampen your soil with 1/2 cup of water before you begin planting seeds.

How many seeds do I need to plant?

• We recommend planting 6-8 seeds spaced evenly around the jar opening. If you planted the whole packet already, no problem. You may just have a few more seedlings to trim in the next couple of weeks.

Why push the seeds 1⁄4" into the soil?

• Your seeds need a warm, moist environment to germinate, and the light 1⁄4" blanket of soil is perfect for that. If left uncovered, the seeds may not be moist enough to sprout, but push them too far into the soil and they may never have the chance to peek their heads up. We’ve found that 1⁄4" is the goldilocks of depths – not too shallow, not too deep, but just right!

How do I make sure my seed germinate?

• We’ve developed this detailed set of guidelines and tips that if followed closely will get you growing like a pro!

 Back to Top

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

ONGOING CARE

Watering

How much water does my Lavender need?

• Lavender is a drought-resistant plant and prefers drier soil after it has germinated. Throughout growth, allow the soil to dry out before each new watering.
• Depending on how warm your home is and how much direct light your planter gets, the time between waterings will vary.
• Additionally, when your lavender seedlings are small, they will need less water than when they are fully developed! Under normal conditions, your planter will not need more than 1⁄2 cup of water at a time, and often it will be less!

My planter is overwatered - what do I do?

• The best visual indicator of overwatering is when you tilt the jar to its side and see lots of water sloshing around the bottom. Use a thin instrument like a chopstick to poke a hold in the soil down to the bottom of the jar.
• You can carefully invert the jar to help drain the water from the soil, and wait until the soil appears fully dry before watering again. Going forward, add less water each time to prevent excess moisture from building up.

What is the green stuff appearing in my soil, around the shoulders of the jar and the sides?

• The green stuff is algae, which thrives in moist environments while also having lots of direct sunlight. This isn’t detrimental to plant growth, but if you want to reduce algal growth add water only once the soil has dried out completely.

There are small flies around my planter, how do I get rid of them?

• Soil gnats and fruit flies are common indoors when moisture is present, for example when a cup of water left uncovered or in your case, with damp soil. We recommend watering less frequently so that the soil is less moist. In addition, you can create a diluted soapy solution to spray the base of your plants with. Don't worry – this won't harm your plant. Here's a link to our favorite homemade recipe.

Thinning

How do I thin my plant?

• When 3" tall, plants should be thinned to 3 stems. First add a bit of water to the soil to soften. Next, carefully pull out stems by the part of the stem closest to the soil, being cautious to avoid disturbing other plants.

Will thinning hurt my plant?

• Nope! It helps the plant by reducing the competition between germinating sprouts for nutrients and soil space in the planter.

Why is thinning necessary?

• In order to have enough space for the roots to grow, and for the plant to grow into a healthy, mature plant to continually harvest from.

What happens if I forgot to thin my plants?

• You can still remove excess plants by trimming using the method mentioned above.

Fertilizing

What are the fertilizer spikes?

• The spikes are made of organic growing material and provide extra nutrients for your plant in critical growth stages. Learn more about the spikes from our partner, ​Jobe’s Organics.

When do I use the fertilizer spikes?

• We provide two for your Windowsill Lavender Planter. The first one should be inserted after 8 weeks, and the second once flowers appear. Insert them into the surface of the soil away from the main stem of the plant, about an inch deep.

Growth Questions

Why isn’t my Lavender growing very quickly?

• Growing lavender from seed is a little slower than most growers might be used to with herbs or vegetables. It may take slightly longer - but we think it’s worth the wait for such a beautiful indoor plant!
• Plus, your lavender can be useful even when it’s small! Stems will begin to radiate lavender’s quintessential soothing aroma as soon as a few sets of leaves develop!
• To ensure lavender is growing at its optimal rate, place your planter in full sun or under a grow light.

I HAVE MANY LITTLE PLANTS, BUT NONE THAT ARE GROWING VERY BIG

• If your lavender seems to be stuck as a small plant, a few things can help:
• Thin down to 1 seedling - this will maximize the amount of nutrients for a single stem to grow tall and strong.
• Ensure it gets 8 hours of sunlight per day - or supplement sunlight with a grow light.
• Fertilize - adding a fertilizer spike early can help boost growth if it seems to have tapered off

WHY HASN’T MY LAVENDER FLOWERED?

• Lavender normally likes to flower between spring and early fall. Don’t want to wait for flowers? The leaves can be used for nearly all the same things!

 Back to Top

SETUP

Product Components
Planting + Germination
Sunlight + Planter Placement

GROWTH & CARE

Watering
Thinning
Growth Questions

LOSE YOUR INSTRUCTION CARD?

Download a digital version of the Windowsill Sunflower Planter Instruction Card by clicking on the image below!

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

SETUP

Product Components

Why does it come in a glass jar?

• We use clear glass because it lets you watch the roots of the plant develop and see how moist your soil is for assessing your plant's watering needs. The glass jar is also fully reusable and recyclable; after your final harvest you can compost the soil, wash the jar and use it for something else!

Can my sunflower really grow in a small container like this?

• Yes it can! We selected a special dwarf-type sunflower variety and blended custom soil to make sure you can grow a full flowering plant! Make sure to put your planter in a space with ample sunlight – one of the most important aspects of getting your plant to thrive!

What is your soil made of?

• Our soil is a custom formulated blend of nutrient-rich ingredients that balance holding enough moisture and allowing for good airflow.

Is your soil organic?

• Yes! Our soil blend is made of 100% organic materials certified for use in organic gardening by ​OMRI​, sourced from and blended in the United States.

Are these seeds organic?

• Yes! 100% organic, certified by Oregon Tilth.

Are these seeds Non-GMO?

• Yes, all of our seeds are non-GMO.

What kind of sunflower am I growing?

• We’ve selected a special dwarf variety of sunflower called Mardi Gras Blend. These seeds produce spectacular single-petal sunflowers with burnt orange and red hues accenting the traditional yellow petals. They’re designed to grow in containers, so they won’t get too tall and topple over.

Planting & Germination

Should I water my soil first or plant my seeds first?

• First step is to dampen your soil with 1/2 cup of water before you begin planting seeds.

How many seeds do I need to plant?

• We recommend planting 5-6 seeds near the center of your jar. If you planted the whole packet already, no problem. You may just have a few more seedlings to trim in the next couple of weeks.

Why push the seeds 1⁄4” into the soil?

• Your seeds need a warm, moist environment to germinate, and the light 1⁄4" blanket of soil is perfect for that. If left uncovered, the seeds may not be moist enough to sprout, but push them too far into the soil and they may never have the chance to peek their heads up. We’ve found that 1⁄4" is the goldilocks of depths – not too shallow, not too deep, but just right!

How do I make sure my seed germinate?

Temperature & moisture are important factors for successful germination:

• Sunflower seeds germinate best in warm soil. Keep your planter in a warm spot like a sunny window or near a heating vent.
• Keep the top 2” of soil consistently moist throughout germination. Carefully add water as needed.

Sunlight + Planter Placement

Where in my home should I put my planter?

• Your sunflower will thrive in a spot in your home that gets 8+ hours of direct sunlight each day. Most of the time, this will be in a south-facing window - but why is that the case? What's the next best option if that isn't available? How can I tell if my sunlight is direct? All very valid questions - read about finding optimal light for your planter!

What's the best temperature for my sunflower to grow in?

• Once your sunflower has germinated, it will grow well in normal room temperature (70-75 ​°F)​. Ideal conditions for germination are at a slightly higher temperature (80 °F).

 Back to Top

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

GROWTH & CARE

Watering

How much water does my sunflower need?

• Depending on how warm your home is and how much direct light your planter gets, the time between waterings will vary. Peer through your mason jar to check the soil color - as it dries out it will turn a lighter shade of brown. That is your cue to add more water! Additionally, when your sunflower seedlings are small, you will water less frequently than when your plant is larger - so stay vigilant and check your plant often!

My planter is overwatered - what do I do?

• The best visual indicator of overwatering is when you tilt the jar to its side and see lots of water sloshing around the bottom. Use a thin instrument like a chopstick to poke a hold in the soil down to the bottom of the jar.
• You can carefully invert the jar to help drain the water from the soil, and wait until the soil appears fully dry before watering again. Going forward, add less water each time to prevent excess moisture from building up.

What is the green stuff appearing in my soil, around the shoulders of the jar and the sides?

• The green stuff is algae, which thrives in moist environments while also having lots of direct sunlight. This isn't detrimental to plant growth, but if you want to reduce algal growth add water only once the soil has dried out completely.

There are small flies around my planter, how do I get rid of them?

• Soil gnats and fruit flies are common indoors when moisture is present, for example when a cup of water left uncovered or in your case, with damp soil. We recommend watering less frequently so that the soil is less moist. In addition, you can create a diluted soapy solution to spray the base of your plants with. Don't worry – this won't harm your plant. Here's a link to our favorite homemade recipe.

Thinning

How do I thin my plant?

• After germination, you may have multiple sunflower seedlings in your planter. Unfortunately, your container is really only meant to grow one full-size stem, so you’ll need to remove any extras.
• 2 weeks after planting, remove all but the 3 strongest seedlings. Once these have multiple sets of leaves, remove all but one.
• To thin properly, first add a bit of water to the soil to soften. Next, carefully pull out stems by the part of the stem closest to the soil, being cautious to avoid disturbing other plants.

Why is thinning necessary?

• In order to have enough space for the roots to grow, and for your sunflower to grow into a healthy, mature plant with a full bloom!

What happens if I forgot to thin my plants?

• You can still remove excess plants by trimming using the method mentioned above.

Growth Questions

How big is my sunflower supposed to get?

• How big your sunflower gets is going to be a result of the environment it’s growing in. Maximize your sunflower size by giving it ample sunlight - preferably 8+ hours!
• Generally speaking, your sunflower will grow anywhere between 8 and 24 inches tall. No matter how tall it gets, you’ll be sure to get a big bloom!

How long will it take for my sunflower to bloom?

• Usually at about 8 to 10 weeks after germination, a flower bud will emerge from the top of the plant stem. It will slowly open over the next 2-3 weeks to reveal a beautiful bloom! Continue to add water and it’ll stay in bloom for weeks!

Do I need to add fertilizer?

• Sunflowers will grow to full maturity only needing the nutrients we’ve packed into our custom soil blend - no need to add any additional fertilizer or soil amendments!

I have many little plants, but none that are growing very big

If your sunflower seems to be stuck as a small plant, a few things can help:

• Thin down to 1 seedling - this will maximize the amount of nutrients for a single stem to grow tall and strong.
• Check your soil - if your plant is overwatered, root growth may be stunted. Drain your planter and let your soil dry out before adding more water.
• Ensure it gets 8 hours of sunlight per day - or supplement sunlight with a grow light.

 Back to Top

Wild Strawberry’s Top Issue – Germination

While beautiful and delicious, strawberries can also be quite finicky to grow from seed due to inconsistent moisture, improper planting depth, or poor soil. Read below for tips on getting a great first harvest with our kits!
And as always – we’re here for you. If you have additional questions, reach out at contact@backtotheroots.com and our growing experts will be happy to assist!

Setup

Product Components
Placement
Planting

Ongoing Care

Watering
Thinning
Fertilizing
Growth Questions

Lose Your Instructional Card?

Download a digital version of the Instruction Card by clicking on the image below! (Link Wild Strawberry PDF Instructions)

Grow One, Give One

Did you notice our Grow One, Give One campaign on your Planter? At Back to the Roots, we're a small, passionate team on a mission to reconnect families back to where food comes from. As part of that mission, for every Indoor Gardening Kit product you post a photo with, we'll donate the same product & a custom curriculum to an elementary school classroom of your choice! Just tag @backtotheroots and #GrowOneGiveOne when you share your photo on social media.

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

SETUP

Product Components

Jar

Why does it come in a glass jar?

• We use clear glass because it lets you watch the roots of the plant develop and see how moist your soil is for assessing your plant’s watering needs. The glass jar is also fully reusable and recyclable; after your final harvest you can compost the soil, wash the jar and use it for something else!

Can My Wild Strawberries Really Grow In A Small Container?

• Yes it can! We created this Wild Strawberry Planter with the proper seeds and soil blend to grow in this environment. Make sure to put your planter in a space with ample sunlight – one of the most important aspects of getting your plant to thrive!

Soil

What Is Your Soil Made Of?

• Our soil is a custom formulated blend of nutrient-rich ingredients that balance holding enough moisture and allowing for good airflow.

Is Your Soil Organic?

• Yes! Our soil is made 100% organic materials certified for use in organic gardening by OMRI, sourced from and blended in the United States.

Is Your Soil Organic?

• Yes! Our soil is made 100% organic materials certified for use in organic gardening by OMRI, sourced from and blended in the United States.

Seed Packet

Are these seeds organic?

• Yes! 100% organic, certified by EcoCert ICO

Are these seeds Non-GMO?

• Yes, all of our seeds are Non-GMO.

What Kind of Wild Strawberry Am I Growing?

• We provide Organic Wild Strawberry seeds with your planter – latin name Fragaria

Fertilizer Spikes

What Are These For?

• Your planter comes with two fertilizer spikes to give your plant extra nutrients at important stages of growth. Insert one fertilizer spike into the soil once you have thinned to one seedling, and the other when you see flowers!

Are They Organic?

• Absolutely! 100% organic.

Placement

What In My Home Should I Put My Wild Strawberries?

• Your planter will do best in a south-facing window with full sun (8 hours per day). If you don’t have a window that gets lots of light, it may be best to use a grow light (available for purchase here). Learn more about how to find the perfect spot for your planter in our troubleshooting section.

What’s The Best Temperature For My Wild Strawberries To Grow In?

• Your planter will grow well in normal room temperature (70-75 °F). Keep in mind that in higher temperatures, your planter will need more water to keep growing. Additionally, if temperatures are below 60 degrees most of the day, your seeds may be slow to germinate and your plant may grow more slowly.

Planting

Should I Water My Soil First OR Plant My Seeds First?

• Take out your Expanding Seed Starting Soil Disk from the jar, place the disk in a separate bowl, and add 1/3 cup of water. Wait 30 seconds as the soil expands. Once the disk has expanded, fill your planter to the top of the jar with this seed starting soil.

How Many Seeds Do I need to Plant?

• We recommend planting 6 – 8 seeds spaced evenly around the jar opening. If you planted the whole packet already, no problem. You may just have a few more seedlings to thin out in the next couple of weeks.

Why Push The Seeds 1/8” Into The Soil?

• Your seeds a need a warm, moist environment to germinate, and the light 1/8” blanket of soil is perfect for that. If left uncovered, the seeds may not be moist enough to sprout, but push them too far into the soil and they may never have the chance to peek their heads up. We’ve found that 1/8” is the goldilocks of depths — not too shallow, not too deep, but just right!

How Do I Make Sure My Seed Germinate?

• Temperature and moisture are important factors for successful germination. Strawberry seeds germinate best with lots of light exposure and at ~70 ºF. Keep your planter in a warm, lit spot like near a sunny window (6 – 8 hours if direct sunlight) or under a grow light. Seeds will germinate in approximately four weeks. Remove the lid after seedlings appear.

 Back to Top

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

ONGOING CARE

Watering

How Much Water Does My Planter Need?

• To start: water your strawberry seedlings regularly. While they are still small (less than ~1/2" tall), gently keep the soil moist using your spray bottle to not disrupt root growth.
  Keep watering: Once your seedlings grow past 1/2", add 2 — 3 tablespoons every few days, waiting for the soil to become mostly dry between waterings. Your berries will need less water in early stages, and more as they mature.

My Planter Is Overwatered — What Do I Do?

• The best visual indicator of overwatering is when you tilt the jar to its side and see lots of water sloshing around the bottom. Use a thin instrument like a chopstick to poke a hole in the soil down to the bottom of the jar.
  You can carefully invert the jar to help drain the water from the soil, and wait until the soil appears fully dry before watering again. Going forward, add less water each time to prevent excess moisture from building up.

What Is This Green Stuff Appearing In My Soil, Around The Shoulders Of The Jar And The Sides?

• The green stuff is algae, which thrives in moist environments while also having lots of direct sunlight. This isn’t detrimental to plant growth, but if you want to reduce algal growth add water only once the soil has dried out completely.

There Are Small Flies Around My Planter, How Do I Get Rid Of Them?

• Soil gnats and fruit flies are common indoors when moisture is present, for example when a cup of water left uncovered or in your case, with damp soil. We recommend watering less frequently so that the soil is less moist. In addition, you can create a diluted soapy solution to spray the base of your plants with. Don't worry – this won't harm your plant. Here's a link to our favorite homemade recipe.

Thinning

How do I thin my plant?

• When your seedlings are ~1/2" tall, remove all but the three strongest seedlings. As they continue to grow (~1" tall), remove all but one.

Will Thinning Hurt My Plant?

• Nope! It helps the plant by reducing the competition between germination sprouts for nutrients and soil space in the planter.

Why Is Thinning Necessary?

• In order to have enough space for the roots to grow, and for the plant to grow into a healthy, mature plant to continually harvest from.

What Happens If I Forgot To Thin My Plants?

• You can still remove excess plants by trimming using the method mentioned above.

Fertilizing

What Are The Fertilizer Spikes?

• The spikes are made of organic growing material and provide extra nutrients for your plant in critical growth stages. Learn more about the spikes from our partner, ​Jobe’s Organics.

When Do I Use The Fertilizer Spikes?

• We provide two in your grow kit. Once you have thinned to one seedling, push the first fertilizer spike into the soil. After a few months, when flowers appear, push the second fertilizer spike into the soil.
  Keep the spike away from the stems and roots.

Growth Questions

Why Aren’t My Wild Strawberries Growing Very Quickly?

• Growing strawberries from seed is a little slower than most growers might be used to with herbs or vegetables. It may take slightly longer — but we think it’s worth the wait for such a beautiful plant!
  To ensure your strawberries is growing at its optimal rate, place your planter in full sun or under a grow light.

I Have Many Little Plants, But None That Are Growing Very Big

• If your wild strawberries seems to be stuck as a small plant, a few things can help: Thin down to 1 seedling — this will maximize the amount of nutrients for a single stem to grow tall and strong.
  Ensure it gets 6 – 8 hours of sunlight per day — or supplement sunlight with a grow light. Fertilize — adding a fertilizer spike early can help boost growth if it seems have tapered off.

 Back to Top