Seed Starting Problems: Seeds Don't Sprout
We all agree... seed sprouting should be easy. Well, for some seeds, sprouting
certainly is fast and easy. For, others it can be difficult, and takes
weeks to occur.
Are you providing ideal seed sprouting conditions for your seeds? Let's find
out....
The Symptoms:
You planted seeds (indoors or out). But, they are not coming up....yet.
The Causes of Seed Sprouting Problems:
By far, the most common reason seeds do not sprout, is that they are planted
too deeply. If it is too deep, the seedling struggles to emerge.
Heavy, clay soils makes it difficult, impossible for a seedling to break
through the cement-like soil..
Soil and temperature conditions may not be ideal. This can delay germination,
or result in the seeds not sprouting at all.
Another "cause" is the anxious gardener, who is unaware of how long it takes
to sprout a particular seed. Some seeds sprout in as little as three days.
Others, take two or more weeks.
The Remedies:
First and foremost, plant seeds at the proper depth for that seed. Consult
the seed packet, for this information. We also, recommend, sowing seeds,
slightly LESS deep than indicated. You can always add soil around a seedling
after it has grown a couple inches.
TIP: Fine seeds can wash too deeply into the soil, by just watering
them.For fine seeds, sprinkle them on top of the soil. Then, add a dusting
of seed starter soil on top. Water lightly.
When planting outdoors in heavy clay soils, mix in ample amounts of compost,
to make the soil lighter and looser. When you dig the hole or furrow, drop
in the seeds, then cover with a layer of seed starter soil.
Moisture levels are very important. The best rule of thumb, is to keep the
soil moist, but not wet. If the soil is dry, then moisture doesn't penetrate
the seed cover to begin the germination process. Wet soils, results in rotting
of the seeds.
Soil temperatures are too hot or too cold. It takes a minimum temperature
for a seed to germinate. There is a maximum temperature that a seed will
germinate, above this the seed "cooks". The ideal temperature range varies
by type of seed. The ideal range for most garden plants is 70-85 degrees.
Cool weather crops germinate at the lower range. And, warm weather crops
germinate at higher temperatures in this range.
For outdoor plantings, try a raised bed, or a raised row. This helps to warm
the soil, and helps avoid overly wet soils.
See Raised Beds.
Heated germination mats are highly recommended for indoor seed starts.
Buy a heated germination mat.
Consult the information on the back of the seed packet. It should tell you
how long it takes to germinate the seeds under ideal circumstances.
Old seed that is no longer viable. This should t be the cause of the problem
if you bought fresh, seed from a reputable seed company. But, it could be
the cause for older, leftover seed, or seed harvested by you or a gardening
friend. See Seed Germination Tests.
Seed Tays and Seed Starting
Supplies Learn about the types of seed starting supplies, from seed trays
to to peat pots and peat pellets.
Buy Guarden Raised Garden Bed Frames Perfect for people
who aren't into building their own raised beds. These raised beds are attractive,
long lasting and affordable. Guarden raised bed frames are the strongest
in the industry. A greenhouse system can be added to them, too.
Buy Flower, Vegetable and Herb Seeds Finest quality
Ferry Morse Seed, America's oldest seed company with their famous "guarantee
to grow".
|
