Have you just recently decided to germinate your own cannabis seeds? It is a really interesting and rewarding process, only if you know the correct method for making it happen. For that, we have come up with a complete guide that will help you germinate cannabis seeds in the most effective way possible.
What is germination exactly?
Germination is the absolute first stage of any plant development. It is when the seed “understands” that it is in a fertile and climate-friendly environment and can start breaking out of its shell so it can grow into a nice and healthy plant. A seedling will break through the shell, resulting in the development of roots. In the cannabis world, germination is a vital cycle. It is very important for the seed to pop out properly, if, by some chance they don’t, it may cause serious issues in future growth. The growth could be stunned, in the worst-case scenario seedlings may die from improper root development. There are different things that cultivators do to guarantee that the seed sprouts effectively.
How to germinate cannabis seeds?
There are various techniques that cultivators use for cannabis seeds germination. However, not all techniques are effective. The efficiency of some methods may be better than others. As the cannabis industry grows, new modern methods are developed but they may not be as effective as some of the traditional ones. That’s why we decided to bring you the top three proven methods that will guarantee the success of your cannabis seeds germination!
1# Cannabis Seeds Germination In Soil
Soil is the most natural and organic method to germinate your cannabis seeds. The soil has the ideal climate for the germination of cannabis seeds, as like in nature, the soil protects the weak roots from being harmed. However, if the soil’s PH and nutrients are not ideal it may actually damage the young roots, thus killing the plant at its early stage.
You can go for gardening soil that is only delicately treated with fertilizer or you can also go for a seed starter that has a pH level of 6 or slightly more acidic. The acidity in the soil is the crucial environment for the development of the seed into a strong and healthy plant. Be careful when choosing the right soil, if its over-fertilized it may do more harm than good, leave such soils for when your plant matures a little bit.
2# Cannabis Seeds Germination In Water
Assuming that you want your plant to grow faster, seed germination in water will presumably be the way to go. In any case, despite the fact that it is a quicker way to germinate marijuana seeds, there are a few things that you should be cautious with. In order to germinate cannabis seeds properly, you will have to make sure that the environment is optimal for them. Normally, for cannabis seeds to start germinating you will need only a total of 24 to 48 hours. However, the time of germination may vary. If your seeds are old or stored improperly, germination time can be prolonged, in some cases even to a week or two. This germination technique is quicker than the soil method as it provides more moisture. Moisture is a key component in seeds development. When the shell gets soaked it softens up, making it easy for the germ to pierce it.
3# Cannabis Seeds Germination In Paper Towel
Paper towels are another great way for cultivators to germinate their seeds. Growers use damp paper towels to give the seed a moist environment that is needed for cannabis seed germination. The seeds are placed in between two dampened paper towels and then enclosed in a container that will ensure the environment stays humid, best option would be a zip lock bag or even between two plates. Cannabis seeds that are germinated using this technique should be stored at room temperature in a dark place, a drawer or shoe box can work pretty well. With ideal conditions, using this germination technique it will take up to 5 days for the seeds to start sprouting. However, your cannabis strain genetics and seed quality will determine how rapidly they will sprout. Once the roots start to develop and reach around 5 millimeters in length, they are ready to get transferred to the soil. Thus, you must be very careful when planting them. As the roots are very fragile, they can easily break. In some cases, roots can be tangled in the paper towel and break which will result in the plant’s death. This is why you must be extra gentle when handling them.
Final Thoughts
All these methods can work pretty well on their own, but combining some of them will give greater results. Using a cannabis seed germination in water method for 24 hoursc, or until they stop floating will assure you that your seeds are fully soaked and that they absorbed a lot of water. Transferring them into a paper towel after that will provide them with enough moisture and make sure that the seeds don’t drown.
These are some different ways you can germinate your cannabis seeds, but which method will work the best? It solely depends on your preferences. Most growers are using the paper towel method, a moist and dark environment is the most ideal for your cannabis seeds to sprout. Have you ever wondered what are some of the different types of cannabis seeds that you can germinate? Check our article here.
