Seeds are a critical component of cannabis growth. They contain all the cells that eventually grow into a mature plant, and they are protected by an outer shell.
Seeds can be stored in a number of ways. Some people store them in the refrigerator, which mimics the seasonal change that triggers germination in the wild.
How to Germinate Cannabis Seeds
Whether you’re looking for the best seeds for indoor cultivation, or simply want to get a head start on your grow, germinating your cannabis seed is an essential first step. Germinating is the process by which a seed sprouts a small taproot that will eventually give rise to a full-fledged cannabis plant when grown.
The key to successful germination is a moist but not waterlogged environment. Cannabis seeds must imbibe water to sprout, but over-saturating will prevent them from growing.
Aim for a germination setup that replicates the conditions a seed would find in spring, when temperatures are rising and moisture is plentiful. This will help ensure your seeds are triggered to sprout by the three fundamental principles of germination: warmth, moisture, and darkness. You may also wish to add a few drops of root complexes or stimulators to your germination medium. Never disturb or disrupt a seedling during this time, as doing so may damage the young roots.
The Paper Towel Method
One of the most common ways to germinate cannabis seeds is by placing them on a damp paper towel. This method is quick, affordable, and convenient. It’s also a great way to monitor your seed germination progress.
When planting a sprout from a towel, it’s important not to touch the root with your fingers as this can damage it. If you need to move a seedling from the towel, use a popsicle stick, wooden coffee stirrer, or tweezers to avoid disturbing it.
It’s also important to keep the plate of seeds moist at all times. You can do this by misting it periodically, or by putting the plate in a warm place like a sunny windowsill. If the napkin dries out, it won’t be able to hold the water needed for the seed to sprout, so keep an eye on it and spray it whenever necessary.
The Glass of Water Method
This method involves submerging the seeds in a glass of water that is about half-full and kept at room temperature. The drenching activates the seed on both a physical and chemical level, which makes it easier for it to break through its shell. It’s important not to disturb the seeds at this stage, as they are very fragile.
This is one of the least effective methods for germination, but it is still a viable option for beginner growers. Many growers choose to lace their water with a root stimulator for better results.
Crop King Seeds is a popular Canadian seed bank that stocks high-quality marijuana strains. They offer both autoflowering and feminized seeds as well as bulk deals to help you save money. Their GSC strain produces stout buds with high levels of Caryophyllene and is great for beginners because it’s hardy and disease-resistant. It flowers in 10-14 weeks and is ideal for indoor growth as it doesn’t require changing the light cycle or a timer.
The Soil Method
For growers wanting to use a more traditional growing medium, cannabis seeds can be planted directly into soil. Soil germination can be more reliable than water germination, as it provides the opportunity to maintain ideal environmental conditions.
The seeds should be buried about half an inch or 1.25 centimeters deep. The soil should be moist but not soaked, and it should have a low to moderate drainage.
Ideally, cannabis seeds should be grown in soil that has been optimized for plant growth, such as loam. This type of soil combines clay, silt, and sand to provide an optimal environment for seedlings to develop.
After a few days, the seed will start to sprout and should be ready for its next growing medium. It’s important to remember that seedlings are fragile, and they should be handled with care. When transferring them to soil, make sure that the new growing medium is warm and dark and has an even moisture level.
