Germinating your cannabis is an essential step in the life of your plant and the FIRST so we want to get it right; right? That is where this article comes in. Having healthy seeds in your weed farm means you will have high yields from your plants.
There are some methods you may employ in germinating seeds- some may be more successful than others but that comes with what you know works for you.
I will take you through ways you can Germinate your cannabis seeds and strategies for yielding the best results.
However, germination is one of the most significant stages in growing a successful plant (or plant) down the road. So you should strive to ensure your seeds will eventually grow healthy. Proper germination just helps the process go smoother.
Table of Contents
What Are The Factors Affecting Germination Of Your Cannabis Seeds?
Here is an overview of the premium germination practices that can help you achieve higher germination rates in any season.
1. Water
Hard cannabis seeds can be soaked for up to thirty-two hours. However, twenty-four hours under normal circumstances is enough.
Do not over-soak your Cannabis seeds. Soaking your seeds over a long period might damage or drown them. Your cannabis seeds will begin to sprout once the presence of heat and water is manifested.
Once the optimum conditions for germination are achieved, the taproot will start burrowing through the seed’s shell.
If the seed’s root happens to break the shell and finds no water, it dies. You should ensure your seed’s roots are moist and the ample moisture is consistent.
2. Heat
Historically, heat is arguably the most complicated aspect to maintain in germination. You have to be conscious of being “warm” and “hot” because they are not the same for seedlings.
While considering when to grow your seeds, Spring temperatures are convenient. Even though cannabis seeds can germinate under cooler weather, the process might take longer.
Seedlings Germinate faster when the air is humid. If you need to raise the temperature in your grow area, try using incandescent bulbs or a humidifier.
3. Care
When tending to cannabis seedlings, minimal disturbance is key to their healthy development. The delicate taproot, which is the plant’s primary root system, is particularly vulnerable. It’s crucial to handle seedlings with great care, ensuring that the white taproot is not touched or damaged, as this could easily break off and hinder the plant’s growth. Proper handling during this stage ensures the seedling can establish itself securely in the growing medium, setting the stage for strong and healthy development.
4. Are My Marijuana Seeds In A Good Condition?
Growing seeds that are in good condition will increase survival chances. According to specialists, dark cannabis seeds are Most likely (under optimum conditions) to germinate.
Viable seeds shouldn’t be powder-like. From the go, they won’t even Germinate since they are already destroyed.
Given that all marijuana plants grow from seed, most cannabis growers would love to know how to test for seed viability.
Honestly, it might be difficult to tell if a seed will do well by just looking at it. However, there are some signs. Generally, pale green or white seeds might not germinate readily. However, this might not necessarily reflect the plant’s outcome.
If you cannot use all the seeds at once, you should store them in an ideal place until another opportunity arises.
Ultimate Guide To Germinating Your Marijuana Seeds: 5 Methods
1. The Paper & Towel Method
The paper towel is among my favorite methods to pre-sprout seeds. In this method, you only need healthy cannabis seeds, two clean plates, distilled or purified water, and paper towels.
When deciding on the kind of paper towels to use, be sure not to opt for cheap paper towels because they are usually pretty thin.
They just need to be thick enough to absorb water and not rip when you pick them up or worry about the seeds’ taproot growing through.
Despite being a simple method with it, one could easily break the root while moving the seedlings.
There are chances that the towel paper might dry out as well if you forget about them.
As a result, the survival chances of your seeds drop drastically. Whatever the case pay attention to your seeds, here is the process:
What Steps Are In The Paper & Towel Method?
1 – Take a few paper towels; soak them with distilled or filtered water. While it is crucial to soak your paper towels, make sure they don’t tare.
2 – Place two of the sheets on a plate. Lay your Cannabis seeds, keeping some distance in between each seed. Next, fold over the paper towel or, cover the seed with a second sheet.
3 – Cover your hemp seeds with another plate or place them in a ziplock bag. It will help keep them moist. That’s your low-cost seedbed. You should keep an eye on them to see if they sprout.
4 – Store your seeds in a house whose temperature ranges between 70-90 Fahrenheit.
5 – Now you have to be patient! Cannabis seeds can take up to four days to sprout if they are old but usually, sprout are good to plant within 24 hours if you just can’t wait to see that first bud lol.
6 – While checking your seeds, ensure the paper sheets are always saturated. Add some water to avoid drying up whenever you check on your seeds.
Once the seeds split, you’ll notice they’re ready for planting when you see the seed’s taproot, just avoid touching the taproot while transplanting to avoid stress or damage.
2. Direct Planting
Also called direct planting, this is essentially planting seeds directly in your chosen media.
While growing seeds, ensure a large enough container (not large enough to lose your seeds) in which your cannabis seeds will sprout and grow afterward. The container should have a drainage system like holes at the bottom, but I prefer cloth grow bags. Be conscious while choosing your container size because the size of the pot determines the size of the plant.
According to some, a pH value of 7.0 for germination is ideal but I personally don’t pH for germination. Any growing media will do but I prefer coco coir to saline and acidic soils, it’s really natural and retains much more water, making roots less prone to drowning.
The rule of thumb: if the soil’s surface gets dry, you can dig an inch through it and add some water.
One of the benefits of using this method in planting your seeds is that the seeds don’t have to be transported; hence there is no risk of them breaking that comes with movement.
Your cannabis seedlings should adjust to the new environment that they are in and sprout.
3. Seedling Plugs & Starter Cubes
The use of starter cubes & a seedling plug is one of the more popular methods that one can use to grow cannabis seeds.
The cubes will make cannabis germination pretty easy. A favorite of mine is Organiplug! The plugs are pre-packed full of nutrients that are great for rooting transplants or popping new seeds.
By placing your cannabis seeds in the cube or plug and watering them, they stand a chance to sprout. Each cube has a hole through which seeds can grow like it’s in soil.
Assuming you place your cannabis seeds in a seedbed with the right temperature, they should be sure to have your seedlings pop in a day or two. This method is more of a “set it and forget it” growing method with the premade seed hole.
4. Overnight Soaking
Overnight soaking of your Cannabis seeds is as easy as option #3.
The method involves placing your seeds in a warm water glass for a night. The method is more often used where the seeds are hard.
Soaking helps bring them back to life. After placing your seeds in lukewarm water, they might float for some hours before resolving to the bottom.
Seeds should be left to be in the water for at least 8 – 24 hours. Any longer, they might drown. If, after that point, there are no signs of spouting, you can then opt for the paper towel method.
5. A Germination Station
A seed germination station offers Cannabis cultivators an easy way through which to have their weed seedlings.
For some newer growers, after purchasing their cannabis seeds, they usually add them to the germination station and wait for the seeds to pre-sprout.
What is A Seed Germination Station?
A seed germination station’s role is to provide an optimal growing space for seeds. The device has near-perfect conditions that maximize the survival chances of the seeds.
The device usually comes with a heat mat. Its role is to maintain warmth and moisture for the seeds.
One may house seedlings in the station until the roots grow at least a 1” length.
Components of A Seed Germination Station
To enhance the survival of your seeds and for the best results, the gadget add-ons;
- A Waterproof Mat– One can use it to keep the device warm.
- Humidity dome– The dome helps in retaining moisture for the cannabis seeds to grow.
How Can I Use A Germination Station?
The seed germination station will allow you to use any medium you might opt for while sowing your seeds.
Here are the steps:
1 – Soak your cannabis seeds for about twenty-four hours in water.
2 – Put your marijuana seeds in the cells. Cover them with a thin layer of any medium you opt for.
3 – Be keen to see the first leaves after your seeds sprout. Place a lighting medium over them afterward.
While using this method for germination, the use of light is not a prerequisite. Hence, you may opt not to provide light at all.
Planting Seeds After Germination
Planting your already germinated seeds too deep into the soil might not be necessary. At Least ½” into the soil will work. Point your seed’s white taproot into the soil for the plant to be ideally oriented
Where Can I Buy Marijuana Seeds?
Although marijuana seeds might cost a bit depending on strain and quantity, the hassle is worth what you will yield from your little in-home cannabis farm.
Thanks to all of the of flowers you will harvest from your plant(s) at the end of the season.
However, we understand it’s hard to find seeds after every harvest so try cloning from some of your bigger veg plants. So when possible buy your seeds from a reputable seller for quality marijuana-growing seeds that you can plant using these seed germination methods.
Seedsman always has our favorite cannabis seeds on sale with a crazy variety to choose from, so you make the best out of your farm. Keep a close eye on your seeds. We are always adding new content.
If you have any questions or new techniques I’d love to hear from you. Don’t hesitate to reach us on Instagram or any of my social media channels!
Take Away
No matter which method you choose, these tried-and-true pre-sprout techniques almost guarantee successful germination. Let me know in the comments which method you prefer, and don’t miss my video where I showcase my two favorite germination techniques. For the next stages and insights, check out our guide on the vegetative stage.
Additional Resources:
- Grow That Sh!t Better by Maximus Reigns – An essential eBook for both novice and experienced growers, offering advanced techniques and tips for improving cannabis cultivation.
- Cannabis Growers’ Handbook by Ed Rosenthal – A comprehensive guide that covers all aspects of growing cannabis, from setup to harvest.
- Royal Queen Seeds Blog – A rich resource for growers, featuring articles on growing techniques, strain information, and more.
- Need Cannabis Seeds? – Seedsman Seeds has a variety of seeds for all growers from new and seasoned to medical and CBD users.
- Grow Weed Easy – A website dedicated to providing step-by-step guides and resources for growing cannabis at home.
These resources offer valuable insights and practical advice, whether you’re just starting or looking to refine your cultivation practices. Dive into these materials to further enhance your understanding and skills in growing cannabis.
