Community

Down to Earth Living Shares Indoor Seed-Starting Tips

Published

2 months ago

February 20, 2026

Spring may still feel far off with cold temperatures and snow covering the ground, but Down to Earth Living is encouraging gardeners to make the most of the season indoors by starting seeds early.

From browsing seed catalogs and planning garden layouts to planting seedlings now, gardeners can get a head start on spring and grow stronger, healthier plants once warm weather arrives.

When to Start Seeds

Seed-starting time depends on what you are growing, the plant variety, and your local climate.

In our region — including Rockland, Bergen, Westchester, and the Hudson Valley — the last frost date typically falls between late April and early May. Gardeners should confirm their specific local frost date before transplanting seedlings outdoors.

To determine when to start seeds indoors, count backward 4–8 weeks from your local last frost date. This allows seedlings adequate time to grow before transplanting. Keep in mind that frost dates are estimates and weather can vary from year to year, so monitor conditions and adjust timing as needed.

Start with the Right Equipment

To successfully start seeds indoors, you’ll need containers, seed-starting mix, seeds, water, and adequate light.

Use peat pots or plugs to protect roots during transplanting.
Choose a high-quality seed-starting mix designed for young plants.
Start with quality seeds and carefully follow packet instructions for depth, spacing, and care.
Beginners may want to try easy-to-grow vegetables such as lettuce or tomatoes.

Tips for Seed-Starting Success

Use clean containers: Wash with soap and water and rinse thoroughly before planting.
Plant at the proper depth: Follow directions on the seed packet.
Provide sufficient light: Seedlings require 12–16 hours of light daily from a sunny window or grow lights. Keep grow lights approximately two inches above the plants.
Maintain consistent moisture: Keep soil moist but avoid overwatering.
Ensure good airflow: Proper ventilation helps prevent disease and encourages strong growth. Open a window occasionally or use a small fan.
Harden off plants: Gradually introduce seedlings to outdoor conditions by placing them outside for a few hours each day before transplanting.
Transplant gently: Move seedlings carefully and plant them at the same depth they were growing indoors.

“Starting your garden indoors is a great way to beat the winter blues and get a jump on spring,” said Stuart Leventhal, owner of Down to Earth Living. “With the right tools and a little know-how, you can grow strong, healthy plants from seed. Just follow the basics: read your seed packets, provide plenty of light and water, and be patient.”

Community

Rockland County Family Injured in Tragic Crash on Way to Florida

Published

3 weeks ago

April 3, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

On March 28, a Rockland County family of five—mother Yuliya, father Yuriy, and their three sons, Deny (15), Mark (12), and Dave (9)—set out for what was meant to be a joyful family vacation to Florida.

Tragically, their journey was cut short when a pickup truck crashed into the back of their vehicle.

Today, two of their young sons, Mark and Dave, are fighting for their lives in critical condition in the ICU at WakeMed Raleigh Campus in North Carolina.

While Yuliya and Yuriy did not suffer severe physical injuries, the emotional toll of this unimaginable tragedy is profound. No parent should ever have to endure this kind of pain and uncertainty.

The Hlovatsky family, along with their friends and loved ones, are asking for prayers and support during this incredibly difficult time. Right now, Mark and Dave’s lives hang in the balance.

A GoFundMe link to support the family is being shared on our Facebook page.

Please keep this family in your thoughts and prayers.

Community

Women’s History Month Spotlight: Katelyn Tuohy – Rockland County’s Record-Breaking Distance Runner

Published

1 month ago

March 12, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

In recent years, few athletes from Rockland County, New York have captured national attention the way Katelyn Tuohy has. From record-breaking high school performances to championship victories at the collegiate level, Tuohy has become one of the most accomplished distance runners of her generation.

Tuohy first rose to prominence while competing for North Rockland High School. As a teenager, she dominated cross country and track competitions across New York and the United States. Her performances regularly shattered course records and national marks, quickly turning her into a household name in high school running circles.

During her high school career, Tuohy earned multiple national honors and repeatedly claimed the prestigious Gatorade National Player of the Year award for girls cross country and track. Her ability to maintain both speed and endurance allowed her to excel in events ranging from the mile to longer distance races. Coaches and analysts frequently described her as one of the most talented high school runners the country had ever seen.

After graduating from North Rockland, Tuohy continued her career at NC State Wolfpack, where she quickly proved that her success was far from over. Competing at the highest level of collegiate athletics, she became a key member of the university’s powerhouse distance program.

Her biggest breakthrough came when she captured the individual title at the NCAA Cross Country Championships, cementing her place among the elite runners in college sports. The victory not only highlighted her consistency and determination but also helped bring national recognition to the NC State program.

Despite competing on a national stage, Tuohy’s story remains closely tied to her roots in Rockland County. Many local runners view her as a role model who demonstrates what dedication, discipline, and perseverance can achieve. Young athletes throughout the region continue to look up to her as proof that world-class talent can come from their own community.

As Tuohy’s career continues to evolve, many expect her to pursue opportunities on the international stage and possibly compete in global championships or future Olympic events. Regardless of where her path leads next, her journey from Rockland County standout to national champion has already secured her place among the most inspiring athletes to come out of the region.

For runners across New York and beyond, Katelyn Tuohy’s success sends a powerful message: with talent, hard work, and determination, even the longest race can be won.

Photo courtesy Wikipedia