Germination
Part of the free Stevie Weedseed grow guide. No paywall, no account, written by a working grower.
Paper Towel Method (Recommended)
Step 1: Moisten a paper towel with clean, room-temperature water. Damp, not dripping.
Step 2: Place seeds on the towel, fold it over.
Step 3: Put the towel in a zip bag or between two plates.
Step 4: Store somewhere warm (70-80°F) and dark.
Step 5: Check once daily. When a white taproot appears (1/4 to 1/2 inch), it is ready to plant.
Typical germination time: 24-72 hours. Some seeds take up to 5 days.
Step 2: Place seeds on the towel, fold it over.
Step 3: Put the towel in a zip bag or between two plates.
Step 4: Store somewhere warm (70-80°F) and dark.
Step 5: Check once daily. When a white taproot appears (1/4 to 1/2 inch), it is ready to plant.
Typical germination time: 24-72 hours. Some seeds take up to 5 days.
Alternative Methods
Direct Soil: Plant the seed 1/2 inch deep in moist soil. Less handling means less risk of root damage. Harder to monitor progress.
Water Soak: Drop seeds in a glass of room-temperature water. After 12-24 hours, many will crack open. Plant immediately once the taproot shows. Never soak longer than 36 hours or seeds can drown.
Water Soak: Drop seeds in a glass of room-temperature water. After 12-24 hours, many will crack open. Plant immediately once the taproot shows. Never soak longer than 36 hours or seeds can drown.
Ideal Conditions
Temperature: 70-80°F. Cold slows germination dramatically.
Moisture: Consistent dampness, never soaking wet. Too much water rots seeds.
Darkness: Seeds prefer dark environments while germinating.
Moisture: Consistent dampness, never soaking wet. Too much water rots seeds.
Darkness: Seeds prefer dark environments while germinating.
Common Germination Mistakes
- Overwatering. Seeds need moisture, not saturation
- Touching the taproot. It is extremely delicate, use tweezers
- Planting too deep. 1/2 inch max, or the seedling cannot reach the surface
- Cold water. Use room temperature, always
- Giving up too early. Some seeds take 7 days, especially older seeds