germinating seeds?

iv only grown twice before and iv been getting my seeds from Nirvana, they seem to be really good seeds but i just wanted to know the best way to germinate them. the last two times iv done it in a paper towel in the hot water cupboard but it seems like unnecessary risk transplanting them. wouldn't it be easier to put it straight in soil or rockwool?

Yes. The tap root is very delicate so really no need to risk damaging it.

The simplest way is in moist warm soil about 70f

I started out practicing with bagseed, and used the paper towel method to save soil. It's added risk, but I never tried to see which way is best. Just tried to dial in the paper towels.

If you've got questionable seeds, it's a great way to know if they're ok before planting.

I still do it the same way with good seeds too. I should probably sow half directly in next time and See what The fuss is.

I always do the paper towel method, especially with old seeds that might not be as viable. I actually think people exaggerate how delicate the taproot is, I've planted drunk and dropped one on the floor on the way to the hole and it was fine. The only time I've actually planted and not had something come up is when I planted right after the seed cracked instead of waiting and making sure the taproot poked out of the membrane.

joelu said:

iv only grown twice before and iv been getting my seeds from Nirvana, they seem to be really good seeds but i just wanted to know the best way to germinate them. the last two times iv done it in a paper towel in the hot water cupboard but it seems like unnecessary risk transplanting them. wouldn't it be easier to put it straight in soil or rockwool?

Click to expand...

I always germ in a handy paper towel. 2-3 days and they pop. Then I plant, root tip pointing up.

joelu said:

the last two times iv done it in a paper towel in the hot water cupboard but it seems like unnecessary risk transplanting them. wouldn't it be easier to put it straight in soil or rockwool?

Click to expand...

I agree. I did paper towel once and didn't like the risk to the exposed roots. Since then I soak in 5 parts RO 1 part 3% hydrogen peroxide until the seed cracks, maybe 1-2mm of root exposed. Then plant in soil.

I just tried Rapid Rooters for the first time. I'm sold. Worked much better. They sprouted sooner. (I did my soak for 12-18 hours.). I turned the rooter upside down, poked my own hole in it (stabbed a few holes branching off from that hole, using a paper clip), tore off a piece from the side, shredded it and sprinkled over the seed to make light top-cover.

I think the hole it comes with is too large, for cloning. People plug it with a piece of material tore from the side. But, I still think it doesn't make good contact in that hole. I saw a youtube video where someone creates their own hole on the opposite end. Seemed like a good idea.