Home Farm Herbery

Seed Germination

Seed germination is quite simple… right?Usually it is. However, sometimes problems do occur and the problem is easy to describe.Mostly someone says, “My seeds didn’t germinate”.We test our seeds for proof of germination! Thus we know when we send them they have at least an 85% to a 99% proof of germination.That means if you have 100 seeds anywhere from 85 to 99 of them will germinate.

There are many causes of poor seed germination.Fortunately, most cause of poor germination is easily corrected.Mother Nature produces a vast array of types of seeds.All seeds have a couple of things in common that is needed for germination. They all need moisture and warmth.The similarity stops here.

Successful seed starting begins by knowing the ideal germination conditions for the specific seed you are trying to sprout.Each see has an ideal soil temperature and moisture requirements for successful germination, some seeds like cool soils while other others need warm soil to sprout.Some seeds like wet soil, while others need moist to slightly dry conditions.Seed planting depth varies from seed to seed.Some seeds need light to sprout, while others begin life under dark soil.

Seeds need moisture, NOT WATER! A little moisture is all that is needed.

So do some research on the particular seed you have decided to buy and are planting!

We have no control over the seed germination conditions and all seed sales are final.

Tips for Improving Seed Germination

Pre-soaking seeds prior to planting helps hard to sprout seeds.This works well for bigger seeds and hard shelled seeds.It softens the seed coat and helps moisture to reach the “nut” inside.

Nicking Seeds is a common practice for peas and hard shelled seeds.It helps moisture to reach the “nut” inside.

Plastic mulch aids in raising the soil temperature to speed germination outdoors.Black plastic works best, but must be removed before the seeds sprout.

Germination Mats raise the temperature in your seed trays.They are the perfect indoor solution to improving seed germination and can have amazing results.

Home Farm Herbery

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