Do I need to purchase a heat mat to successfully germinate seeds indoors?

Question:

Do I need to purchase a heat mat to successfully germinate seeds indoors?

Answer:

Most seeds germinate best when the medium temperature is consistently 70 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit.  Placing containers in a warm location in the house, such as on top of a radiator or near a heat register, usually works fine.  In cool environments, electric heating cables or mats can be used to insure warm medium temperatures.