Seed germination, it should be simple right? Usually it is. But sometimes problems do occur. The problem is easy to describe – usually it's "My seeds didn't Germinate". There are many causes of poor seed germination. Fortunately, most causes of poor germination are 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 are 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 seed has an ideal soil temperature and moisture requirements for successful germination. Some seeds like cool soils, while 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 the dark soil.

Here are the common seed germination problems:

Seeds are planted to deep: We list this problem first, because many seed end up to deep in the soil, and never see the light of day. Before planting, check the seed packet. Make sure to plant seeds no deeper than the depth indicated. For tiny or fine seeds, it may be better to sow them on top of the soil, and water them in. This is especially important in loose soils.

Heavy, compacted soil makes it difficult for young seedlings to emerge into the spring air. If you have clay or other heavy soils, use a light soil or seed starting mix to cover your seeds. Inside use a professional seeding mix, not potting soil!

Temperature is an important trigger to seeds. Nature causes each type of seed to awaken at a certain temperature, below which they will not sprout. As spring progresses toward summer, the soil warms. First, cool weather crops emerge. Then heat loving plants emerge, sprouting as the soil warms to the temperature needed for germination. Raising the soil temperature will increase seed germination rates and decreased germination times.

Everyone knows a seed needs moisture to sprout. Note, we said moisture not water. A little moisture is all that is needed. A lot of water, especially for prolonged periods, causes seeds to rot in the soil. Increase drainage by elevating the soil, or using raised beds. This is especially useful in rainy, spring weather.

Soil imbalance is usually associated with poorly growing crops. Soils with extremely high or low pH is detrimental to the growth of a new seedling. We recommend a soil test prior to planting each year.

Tips for improving seed germination:

Pre-soaking seeds prior to planning 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 soil temperature in your seed trays. They are the perfect indoor solution to improving seed germination. It can have amazing results.

The last thing to keep in mind is that seeds are a live product, and they depend on many important grower skills, such as proper planting time, seed depth, type of soil, watering, light intensity, proper use of fertilizers, weed controls, fungicides, insecticides, sol conditions and reasonable weather during the growing period.  These factors are totally out of our control when you buy seeds from us.  Therefore, germination and growing results are the buyer's responsibility and risk.  Seller cannot be responsible for buyers growing methods or mistakes.  Please comment or use the contact form with any questions.  Thanks!

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