How do I grow with the Seed Pod Kit?

What’s the advantage of refilling my Counterstand with a Seed Pod Kit instead of living seedlings?

Both options work beautifully with the Counterstand. The right choice depends on how you want to grow.

Living seedlings are already established and are the easiest, fastest way to grow—perfect if you want to skip germination entirely and start with plants that are already thriving.

Seed Pod Kits are a great option if you:

• Want maximum flexibility on when you start growing

• Need to replace just one plant in your Counterstand Set

• Want everything included in one box to give the Counterstand Set as a gift

How long until I’m supposed to see something?

Different seed varieties have different germination rates, but you should start to see signs of growth within 7-14 days.

How can I help my seeds germinate faster?

• Keep grow plugs evenly moist, allowing them to dry slightly between watering

• Maintain a warm environment (65-80°F)

• Aim for higher humidity (50% or higher)

Should I thin out some of the sprouted stems?

It depends on the plant! 

We include a few extra seeds to give you the best chance of success. If multiple seeds begin to sprout, trimming excess stems can help the remaining plant grow stronger and healthier—with enough space, light, water, and nutrients to thrive. Too many plants in one pod can slow growth.

Reference the chart below and carefully trim any excess stems over the recommended number, taking care not to disturb neighboring stems.

Recommended number of stems per pod:

When should I add water, the wick, and nutrients to the Counterstand?

When your seedling is about 1.5 inches tall and you see roots emerging from the bottom of the cup, it’s time to set up your Counterstand for bigger growth. Follow the Counterstand Quickstart Guide for step-by-step instructions.

My seeds didn’t germinate. What might have happened?

If none of the seeds in your Seed Pod sprouted, it’s most often due to:

• Too much or too little water

• Seeds being pushed too deeply into the expanded grow plug

Review the germination instructions and reach out if you have questions—we’re happy to help.

My seeds sprouted, but they don’t look healthy. What should I do?

Start by checking the basics—most issues are easy to correct.

• Make sure you’re adding only 1 tablespoon of water once per day, so that plugs stay moist to the touch (not soaking or dried)

• There should be no water in the Counterstand vase during germination

• Do not use liquid nutrients at this stage

• Provide 6–8 hours of direct sunlight, or 16 hours under the Glow Lamp

• If using tap water, switch to purified water to help maintain balanced pH

• Ensure room temperature stays between 65–80°F

• If indoor conditions are dry, gentle mist sprouts every other day with cool water

If multiple seedlings sprouted, they may be competing for light and water—refer to the recommended stem counts above.

Do you guarantee that Seed Pods will germinate?

Seed Pod Kits don’t carry the same guarantee as our living seedlings, which are already established and are the easiest and fastest way to grow in your Counterstand.

That said, if multiple Seed Pods haven’t sprouted after two weeks, don’t hesitate to reach out to our customer care team. 

Can I germinate other plant varieties?

Yes. If you have your own seeds and compatible grow medium, the Counterstand can be used for germination. Germination times may vary, and we can’t guarantee seed quality for non–Lettuce Grow seeds.

• Grow medium should fit (approximately 38 mm diameter)

• Stick to herbs, leafy greens, lettuces, and small flowers

Can I transplant seedlings into a Farmstand, Farmstand Nook, or soil?

Yes. Once seedlings reach about 1.5 inches tall, they can be transplanted into other growing environments, including soil or a Farmstand/Nook.

Do not remove the plant from the grow medium—transfer the entire Seed Pod just as you would a living seedling.

Can I germinate seeds directly in a Farmstand or Farmstand Nook?

We strongly recommend germinating separately in the Counterstand. Farmstand and Nook settings—pump timing, lighting, and nutrient dosing—aren’t designed for seed germination and can make success more difficult.

What is the seed glue?

We use nori glue, a natural, food-safe, water-based adhesive made from plant starches (such as rice or cornstarch).