- Moist soil (not wet) is necessary to soften the seed coat, so that the rootlet can emerge. A seed bed that dries out before this occurs may stop the process.
- Plant the seed no deeper than the seed itself. For example, a bean seed that is 1/2” tall should be planted 1/2” deep. Tiny seeds should be lightly spread on top of the moist seed bed, then barely covered by sprinkling fine soil on top. Larger seeds, should be planted to the depth of their size.
- Gently tamp down moist soil over the seeds, making sure there is good soil contact. The soil holds the moisture. Make sure that the soil doesn’t dry out.
- Light and temperature can make a difference to germination. Information about origins of the plant can tell us what season to plant them here. For example, many of the plants that we grow in the winter here are summer blooming in Alaska.
- Some seeds require special treatment, such as scratching the surface or soaking. Okra is an example of seeds needing to be softened by soaking.
- Local advice is usually the most accurate. The local county extension office will have local information. (See “organizations” on our Resources page.)
Leave a Reply