Germination is the process of seeds developing into new plants. The water activates special proteins, called enzymes, that begin the process of seed growth. First the seed grows a root to access water underground. Next, the shoots, or growth above ground, begin to appear.

Answer: Because knowing the germination rate of a particular seed lot is key to understanding how well that seed will perform in the field. If your seed has a 90% germination rate, it means 90 out of 100 seeds are likely to germinate under good growing conditions.

A germination test determines the maximum germination potential, or viability, of the seed. Why do a Germination Test? Because knowing the germination rate of a particular seed lot is key to understanding how well that seed will perform in the field.

The seed coat is the seed’s primary defense against adverse environmental conditions. A hard seed coat protects the seed not only from mechanical stress but also from microorganism invasion and from temperature and humidity fluctuations during storage.

Seeds are living things as they contain an embryo that is capable of germinating to produce a new plant under optimum temperature, humidity and availability of water. If seeds were not alive, they would not have been able to germinate, give rise to seedlings and develop into mature plants.

These are:

• Water (during absorption and subsequent stages of growth).
• Oxygen (for respiration).
• Temperatures adequate for metabolism and growth.

Temperature, moisture, air, and light conditions must be correct for seeds to germinate. All seeds have optimal temperature ranges for germination (Table 1). The minimum temperature is the lowest temperature at which seeds can germinate effectively.

All seeds need water, oxygen, and proper temperature in order to germinate. Some seeds require proper light also. Some germinate better in full light while others require darkness to germinate. When a seed is exposed to the proper conditions, water and oxygen are taken in through the seed coat.

ANSWER: Seeds that are planted too deep in the soil may grow into weak, feeble seedlings or fail to germinate at all. If it’s been buried too far under the surface of the soil, the seed may not get the light it requires to sprout.

Typically 24 hours soak and the taproot will be out. Pop her a cm under the soil or so, cover, water, leave the hell alone. Couple days, as long as 10 days (albight rarer), before the seed springs into life.

The most common cause of early seedling death is “damping-off,” a fungal disease which affects the new plant stem just at soil level. The stem becomes brown, rots and the little plant topples over and dies. Damping-off fungi are more of a problem in cold soils with poor drainage, and in conjunction with overwatering.

Yes, it is true that your seedlings need lots of bright light to grow healthy and strong—but they also need a period of darkness in order to thrive. In general, seedlings should receive roughly 14 to 16 hours of light a day when situated in a south-facing window.

about 2 – 4 inches

Question: After I’ve sown the seeds and turned on the heat mat, do I leave it on all night? Answer: Yes. Leave the heat mat on and set to the same temperature 24 hours a day until the seeds sprout.

In very general terms you need 15 watts per sq foot to grow seedlings.

LED plant lights use less energy and emit less heat than compact fluorescent lights, reducing costs and simplifying temperature control in enclosed environments. Go with full-spectrum LEDs (which don’t look purple) for growing seedlings, propagating plants, and perking up houseplants in winter.

fluorescent

Vegetable seedlings and other “full sun” plants require about 2000 to 3000 lumens (at minimum) per square foot of growing space. So, if you’re growing just a single standard tray of seedlings, using a grow light that emits 3000 lumens is sufficient.

Just as too much or not enough light can cause yellowing seedling plants, too much or too little water or fertilizer could also be the problem. If the soil around your plants has been completely dried out between waterings, your seedlings are probably just thirsty.

What Color Light is Best for Plant Growth? Violet-blue light in the 400 – 520 nanometer range encourages chlorophyll absorption, photosynthesis, and growth. Red light in the 610 – 720 spectrum range promotes flowering and budding.

fluorescent lights

Most seeds do not need light to germinate, so covering the planted containers, placing them on the heat source, and checking them daily (watering when necessary), can work well for germination. When the seeds begin to germinate, remove them and place them directly under a light source.

Light, light, light! If seedlings don’t get enough light, they will be leggy and weak. If you’re growing under lights, adjust them so they’re just a few inches above the tops of the seedlings. Set the lights on a timer timer for 15 hours a day. Keep in mind that seedlings need darkness, too, so they can rest.