Essentials
Genovese Basil seeds or a starter plant
Pick one variety. Don't over-buy on day one.
Small pot or container (with drainage)
4–6 inch is plenty for one herb.
Potting mix
Get the smallest bag — leftovers store fine.
Saucer or tray
Catches drainage and protects your windowsill.
Spray bottle
Gentle misting beats heavy pours for seedlings.
Helpful but Optional
Plant markers
Optional — popsicle sticks or masking tape work too.
Small pruning scissors
Cleaner snips than tearing leaves by hand.
Reuse at Home · Low-Cost Alternatives
Reused food containers
Yogurt cups, tin cans, takeout clamshells — poke 3–4 drainage holes.
Glass jars
Perfect for regrowing scallions, mint cuttings, or sprouting seeds in water.
Egg cartons
Each cup is a perfect seed-starting cell. Tear apart when seedlings are ready.
A plate or tray you already own
Stands in for a store-bought saucer.
Free seeds from a library or community garden
Many local programs share seeds at no cost.
Where to get it
Find on Amazon Show local options Lowest-cost alternatives
Growing Forward is education-first. Shopping support is included only to reduce friction for beginners.
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