If you carefully follow either of the germination methods detailed below, you will have every reason to be on the green path to success. Be patient and always work in a clean and sterile environment by using isopropyl alcohol to sterilize. Use sterile tweezers, clean hands, and a clean work area. Good luck aiming for the stars, and congratulations on your first steps in becoming a green-thumbed enthusiast!
- Our Top Tip for Guaranteed Germination Success
- Patience is a Virtue When Germinating Cannabis Seeds
- Germinating Cannabis Seeds Using the Paper Towel Method
- Germinating Cannabis Seeds Using the Glass of Water Method
- Germinating Cannabis Seeds Using Direct Soil Germination
- Germinating Cannabis Seeds Using Jiffy Pellets
- Germinating Cannabis Seeds Using Rockwool Cubes
- Nurturing Your Sprouts: Proper Seed Placement
- Key Tips for Stubborn Seeds
Our Top Tip for Guaranteed Germination Success
One of the best ways to ensure you get a good germination rate with long, healthy taproots (officially called “Radicle”) perfect for transplanting is to combine the pre-soak and paper towel methods. Over the years, we have found that starting your cannabis seeds in water for 24 to 48 hours and then transferring them to a plastic tub and paper towels for at least 48 hours works wonders. Once you see the beginning of a root poking out of the seed shell, you can start preparing your seed’s next home and transplant them.
Patience is a Virtue When Germinating Cannabis Seeds
The most important skill to have is patience. Cannabis seeds are a natural product, and not everything always goes as planned. As long as you nurture the seeds with the right environmental conditions, there is a very good chance your beans will sprout, but we simply can’t guarantee a 100% successful germination rate.
If you have stubborn seeds that require more time, simply wait longer and have faith, or go directly to our guide on what to do with truly pig-headed seeds that won’t germinate.
Cannabis seeds come in all shapes and sizes, and every seed will act differently—some germinate faster than others, some produce long taproots, while others turn out much shorter. Patience is a virtue, especially when starting your seeds off for the marathon ahead. The tips I’m offering below will make sure you give your seeds the best possible start!
Germinating Cannabis Seeds Using the Paper Towel Method
The recommended and easy-to-follow method for germinating cannabis seeds is to use a couple of paper towels and a plastic tub. Below we explain everything you need to know about how to successfully germinate seeds using the paper towel method.
What You Will Need
- A roll of thick paper towels (kitchen grade)
- 1 x Small plastic tub and lid
- 1 x Spray bottle
- 1 x Sticker labels and pen
- Cannabis seeds
- Dark cupboard space
Steps to Follow for Germinating Cannabis Seeds in Paper Towels
- Step 1 – Take your sticker labels and write the name of the strain and the date. Place the sticker on the outside of the plastic tub as a reference. (If germinating multiple strains, make sure each tub is clearly labeled.)
- Step 2 – Take a sheet of thick kitchen-grade paper towel and spray it until it is wet (damp, but not soaked). Fold it into the dimensions of your plastic tub and place it in the tub.
- Step 3 – Carefully place your seeds on the damp paper towel, giving the seeds plenty of space. Now, take another paper towel sheet, spray it until it is damp (not soaked), and likewise fold it to the appropriate size. Now, place the second wet paper towel over the seeds like a blanket.
- Step 4 – Now place the lid over the tub, as this will keep the moisture inside while the seeds are germinating and prevent the paper towel from drying out.
- Step 5 – Place the labeled tub in a dark, cupboard space and check on the seeds every 24 hours. You should be seeing taproots within 48-72 hours.
- Step 6 – Once you see one or more seeds have sprouted a taproot, it is time to prepare your chosen grow medium for the transfer of the sprouted seed(s).
- Step 7 – When you are ready to transfer the sprouted seed(s), gently remove the top paper towel, and using a pair of tweezers, carefully pick up the sprouted seeds and insert the seeds into your chosen growing medium with the taproot facing down.
What Can Go Wrong When Germinating on a Paper Towel?
- The Taproot is Stuck on the Paper Towel: The young taproot (radicle) will develop fussy little hairs when first immersing from the shell. These little hairs can get stuck on the paper towel sometimes. This is why you always need to handle the seeds with care and only apply gentle pressure when picking them up from the towel.
- The Paper Towel is Too Wet: Lightly spray the paper towel until you achieve the right moisture levels. You want the paper towel to be sufficiently damp but not dripping wet. Remember, seeds love oxygen, so avoid overwatering.
- The Paper Towel is Too Dry: In some cases, the paper towel can dry out, especially if the lid is not fixed onto the tub. The dried paper towel will prevent seeds from germinating.
- Cold Temperatures: The ideal temperature for seed germination is about 77°F (25°C), but within the range of 70-85°F (20-30°C) is good. Aim for a warm and dark environment if possible.
- Stubborn Seeds: In some cases, when the seeds don’t germinate when you expect them to, you can try a simple scarification technique to encourage germination. Or just give your seed a bit more time between the sheets of paper towels to wake up. If the seeds don’t show signs of life after 7 days, contact our customer support for replacement seeds.
Germinating Cannabis Seeds Using the Glass of Water Method
Germinating cannabis seeds by soaking them in water is one of the easiest ways to germinate. Yet, soaking them alone does not always work as well as using the paper towel method described above. Again, we recommend you try both techniques in combo if one doesn’t quite work.
What You Will Need
This simple cannabis seed germination method doesn’t require a lot of skills or tools.
- 1 x (plastic or glass) cup
- 1 x Bottle of drinking water (bottled water is preferred)
- Sticker labels and a pen
- Cannabis seeds
- Dark cupboard space
Steps to Follow When Germinating in Water
- Step 1 – Take your sticker labels and write the name of the strain and the date. Place the sticker on the outside of the cup as a reference. (If germinating multiple strains, make sure each cup is clearly labeled.)
- Step 2 – Make sure the cup is clean, and fill it up with at least 2 inches of water. It is important that the water is at room temperature and does not become cold.
- Step 3 – Now, carefully open your seed packet and drop the seeds in the labeled cup of water. At first, the seeds will float on the surface, but within 24-48 hours, they will have sunk to the bottom (or at least most of them).
- Step 4 – Now, find a dark place, such as a cupboard, and place the cup inside. You will want the space to be dark, with no sunlight.
- Step 5 – Check on the seeds inside the cup every 24 hours, and within 48-72 hours, you will notice the seed shell opening up and a white tail emerging out of the bottom.
- Step 6 – Once you see one or more seeds have sprouted a taproot, it is time to prepare your chosen grow medium for the transfer of the sprouted seed(s).
- Step 7 – Once all the seeds have sunk to the bottom with white taproots showing, you can now very carefully drain the water and prepare to transplant the seeds using a pair of tweezers into your chosen growing medium with the taproot facing down.
What Can Go Wrong When Germinating Seeds in Water?
- Cold Water: Cannabis seeds prefer warm temperatures. The ideal temperature is about 77°F (25°C), but within the range of 70-85°F (20-30°C) is good.
- Stubborn Seeds: In some cases, when the seeds do not sink or show signs of opening, you can try a simple scarification technique to encourage germination. Or take those stubborn seeds and apply the paper towel technique to give them a bit more time to wake up. If the seeds don’t show signs of life after 7 days, contact our customer support for replacement seeds.
- Knocking Cups Over: It is easily done and can set you back big time. Be careful when checking your cups, and do your best to avoid knocking cups over!
Germinating Cannabis Seeds Using Direct Soil Germination
Direct soil germination is one of the most natural ways to sprout your cannabis seeds, mimicking how they would germinate in nature.
What You Will Need
- Small plant pots
- High-quality seedling soil mix (light and airy)
- Cannabis seeds
- Spray bottle with water
- Dark, warm place
Steps to Follow for Direct Soil Germination
- Step 1 – Fill your small plant pots with the seedling soil mix. Lightly moisten the soil using the spray bottle, but make sure it’s not soaked.
- Step 2 – Make a small hole in the center of the soil, about half an inch deep.
- Step 3 – Carefully place your seed into the hole, taproot facing down if already visible, and cover it lightly with soil.
- Step 4 – Place the pot in a warm, dark area, and keep the soil moist by spraying as needed.
- Step 5 – Optionally, you could put a “humidity dome” over the area where you planted your seeds. This can be as simple as cutting off the bottom of a plastic soda bottle.
Just make sure you take off that dome as soon as you see the sprout emerging from the soil. - Step 6 – After 5-10 days, you should see the seedling breaking through the soil.
What Can Go Wrong with Direct Soil Germination?
- Overwatering: Soil that is too wet can suffocate the seed and prevent germination. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Planting Too Deep: Planting the seed too deep can make it difficult for the seedling to reach the surface. Stick to about half an inch deep.
- Cold Temperatures: Like other methods, cannabis seeds germinate best at around 77°F (25°C). Keeping the soil warm will help with successful germination.
Germinating Cannabis Seeds Using Jiffy Pellets
Jiffy Pellets are convenient, easy-to-use compressed peat pellets that expand with water and create a perfect environment for seed germination.
What You Will Need
- Jiffy pellets
- Warm water
- Tray to hold pellets
- Cannabis seeds
Steps to Follow for Germinating in Jiffy Pellets
- Step 1 – Place the Jiffy pellets in a tray and add warm water. Allow the pellets to expand fully as it absorbs the water.
- Step 2 – Once expanded, make a small hole in the center of each pellet and place your cannabis seed inside.
- Step 3 – Lightly cover the seed with the peat from the pellet and keep it moist.
- Step 4 – Place the tray in a warm, dark area, and keep an eye on the moisture level.
- Step 5 – In 3-7 days, you should see seedlings begin to emerge. Once they do, they can be transferred to a larger growing medium.
What Can Go Wrong with Jiffy Pellets?
- Drying Out: Jiffy pellets can dry out quickly, so be sure to keep them moist but not overly saturated.
- Temperature Issues: Maintaining a temperature of 70-85°F (20-30°C) will give your seeds the best chance to sprout.
Germinating Cannabis Seeds Using Rockwool Cubes
Rockwool Cubes (or Stone wool blocks) are popular among hydroponic growers for their excellent moisture retention and sterile environment.
What You Will Need
- Rockwool Cubes
- pH-adjusted water (pH level between 5.5 – 6.5)
- Cannabis seeds
- Tray
Steps to Follow for Germinating in Rockwool Cubes
- Step 1 – Soak the rockwool cubes in pH-adjusted water for at least 30 minutes.
- Step 2 – Place the soaked cubes in a tray and make a small hole in the center of each cube.
- Step 3 – Place your seed into the hole, lightly covering it.
- Step 4 – Keep the cubes moist and in a warm, dark place until the seeds sprout.
- Step 5 – In 3-7 days, you should see seedlings begin to emerge, ready for transfer to their growing environment.
What Can Go Wrong with Rockwool Cubes?
- Incorrect pH: Rockwool cubes need to be pH-adjusted before use. The ideal pH range is 5.5 – 6.5 for germination.
- Drying Out or Oversaturation: Rockwool cubes retain water well, but it’s still important to monitor moisture levels to prevent drying out or oversaturation.
Nurturing Your Sprouts: Proper Seed Placement
Once your seeds have sprouted, it’s important to plant them correctly for optimal growth. Always plant with the taproot facing down. This allows the root to grow deeper into the medium while the seedling pushes upward toward the light. Plant your sprouted seed about half an inch deep—this provides stability while allowing the sprout to emerge easily.
Key Tips for Stubborn Seeds
Sometimes, even with the best conditions, some seeds may need a bit of extra help. Here are some useful tips:
- Be Patient: Some seeds simply take longer to germinate. As long as they’re kept warm and moist, they may just need more time.
- Using Scarification: Lightly scuffing the seed surface with fine sandpaper can help water penetrate the seed coat, especially for older seeds.
- Hydrogen Peroxide and Fulvic Acid: Adding a small amount of hydrogen peroxide (3%) to your soaking water can help soften the seed shell and promote germination. Similarly, fulvic acid provides micronutrients that can help boost germination success.
So, there you have it—a guide to successfully germinating cannabis seeds. The most important takeaway? Keep things clean, be patient, and always give your seeds the right conditions to sprout.
Happy sprouting!
Do you have to use a grow light after you have planted you germinated seeds
Hi Denise,
Thanks for your question. Yes, for the best results, a grow light is essential, even if its just for the earlier stages. If you don’t use one, you’ll risk the seedlings getting stretchy and they will take longer to progress.
I hope this helps!
Alex ILGM
I have received my strawberry haze CBD seeds. After starting your “water germination” method my seeds have cracked, but after five days of hopeful
checking, my seeds show no tails! this seems like a problem.
Other seeds started(not from ILGM) at the same time are doing fine.
Are these cracked seeds plantable?
Hi Ernie,
Thanks for letting us know. Sorry to hear this. I will reach out to you directly to help you out with this, no worries.
We do certainly recommend planting any seeds after having soaked for longer than 72 hours, even if they haven’t grown a taproot by then.
Kind regards,
Alex ILGM
Good info in this Gide
I must say the ILGM way with water was the best germination process I’ve used to date. I never have had a problem with the seeds sprouting and they seem to be stronger. I’m new to indoor grows but my three strands of Autoflower are going good and strong. I’m at week 5 now and they are beautiful. I managed to keep them all good but one poor little girl who never came up past germination so this is good. 14 are still going as planned. Thanks
I like to use the paper towel in a ziploc / freezer bag . holds the water in and i can just toss it in the closet . I did find out the hard way about 2/ply towels , so split it first or find single ply , and don’t touch the taproot.
Great information! There is a typo on your FAQ section “ Do seeds germinate better in the dark?
Yes. Cannabis seeds will germinate better in the date.”. I assume “date” should be “dark”
Much love PPP✌️
Hey Michael,
Thanks for pointing that out! We will rectify it right away. 🙂
Stacy
ILGM
Thank you Robert I have started your seeds under light. How long do i keep them on constant light? Before i start my 18 hr cycle?
Hi guys, I’m having trouble getting some of the seeds in my “fruity mix pack” to pop. All the banana kush sprouted well but only 2 of five for the mango and I’m trying the last 2 blackberry kush seeds now after the first 3 did nothing. Do you know if any other customers have had trouble with theses strains?
Help, my seeds germinate fine using the water method. But they fail to cast off their hard outer seed shells. I’ve even tried picking them off carefully but under the hard shell is a clearish brown filament that continues to prevent the first leaves from coming out. What am I doing wrong?
use rockwool and soak in adjusted ph of 6 then place seed in hole and gentle pull the moist sides to cover the hole. Place on germ mat/dome with led turned down but close temp 85 to 88. 100 percent germ do not water rookwool unless dry and always from bottom. Do not feed because seed shell is food and transplant whole cube into planting pot.
WORKS EVERYTIME! LEANED THE HARD WAY
I purchased 15 seeds that cost around $175 from ILGM. Combination of Gorilla Glue, Bruce Banner, and Girl Scout Cookies. All Gorilla Glues sprouted. Only 2 Bruce Banners and 2 Girl Scout Cookies sprouted. One of the Girl Scout cookie sprouts looked like a complete circle of a stem. No head no leaves. Still waiting to see if it is going to do something other than be a green stick. They say these seeds are guaranteed, and this is not my first rodeo with ILGM. This is the first time I’ve had problems with the germination of your seeds. Tried to click on to your link for guarantees but the page is out of service. I’ve got eight out of 15 seeds that Made it to germination. Who do I contact to warranty the other dead seeds?
I’ve had the same problem with my fruity mix pack, banana kush seeds were excellent but the mango and blackberry kush seeds weren’t real good. Did you get any response from Ilgm?
Same here.
I feel compelled to share this no muss no fuss germination process i learned from my wife…
Fill your growing reseptical with preferred dirt or growing material, whatever you plan on keeping your plant in through its life. Take half an eggshell, peal out membrane, bury up to the top edge of the shell, fill with dirt. Throw in dry seed, Water and regular light cycle. Sprouts in 2 to 3 days.
Can these be put outside. I’m planning to grow outside
I have been waiting for material I ordered from “Pot four a Pot”, but in reading the provided instruction on germination, I have decided to start the germination process tomorrow (02/05)! Getting excited!
I bought bbg fem seeds as of now two did not germinate. the other two strains did fine(2 of each). What can we do to make this right?
Do you recommend precision needle seeders for doing large-scale seeding? Seriously considering a Bouldin & Lawson but I want to make sure it is efficient prior to purchasing. My main concern is regarding the ability to germinate the seeds prior to planting (not sure if the process will be too rough on the sprouted roots). Any help is appreciated!
I just germinated a gorilla glue seed but haven’t planted her yet. Should I place her in a coco coir nutrient potting soil in a small peat pot and then first transplant start using Bergman nutrients. Or make up the seedling nutrient and use it to water coco coir w/o nutrients in a peat pot. Unsure what to do. Once I get going I have a phototron machine
Thanks for the information I’ll be planting outside in the spring but will start my seeds indoors
I ran a test to see the best way to germinate. I put 4 seed is in a couple glasses of water, I also put 2 seeds in a pot of seed raising soil and I put 4 seeds into small hydro tubs filler with a perlite and vermiculite . The results 24hr later were that the 4 seeds in the glass of water has not done much one seed has cracked but no tail yet, the 2 seeds in pots of seed raising soil had cracked open and show a very small tail, the 4 seeds in the small hydroponic pots filled with a perlite and vermiculite had all sprouted and showing a larger tail. So this time they hudroponice rubs won the race. I think what’s most important is keeping those seeds warm and moist, between 20 to 30 degrease celcios
Good info thanks!
When do you begin counting week 1 of veg? 2 weeks of germinating/seedlings and then week 1 veg?
can i germenat and grow my autoflowing plant in my green house and avoid the use of lights
I’m looking for the right soil for new seedlings. What can I use?
I found a seed in an old stash box that was at least 17-20 years old. Just for fun, I put the seed in one of those spongy things. It germinated.
Three weeks no tap root What should I do. Used jiffy cups.and pap
I think my seeds were old took at least a week for them to break through the seed and its been a week have only 1 plant growing
Thank you
Thanks for the insite of. germanation
I dont use light to germinate my seeds. I do it in the dark. They sprout fast and strong. As soon as they show is when I put them under lights
Thanks for the info I have grown before but I Forget steps
Hi Team,
bought couple of auto seads 2 years ago and didnt had the chance to plant as i wasnt ready at that time, now that im geared up i got started the 3 seeds i germinated last 5 days ago is still germinating i didnt see signs of seeds cracking or rooting any chance that those seeds are dud or should i wait longer?
tried to germinate another batch of seeds today will leave it on the water for 24-48 hours then move it to the cotton or paper towel methong till the tap roots comes out.
Regards,
BK.
Waiting for plants to germinate in jiffy peat pellets. the ph reads 7.0 and I understand the best ph is 5.5 – 6.5 what should I do at this point…Well Water is 7.0 ph
Hey buddy, this is a friendly newbie here,I have been studying for 1 year and slowly gathering the essentials for a small closet grow. I’m going 600 mh hps foxfarm on my soil and nutrients. I have a ph pen also and a tent.I was once a tattoo artist and for 20 years I have suffered from severe anxiety. I been on every kind of meds they have for it.well like 2 years ago I smoked a joint with this chick and wouldn’t you know it helped more than any pill they gave me.Im filing for disability but that takes soooooo long. I have been out of work for 6 months now and I’m going crazy stuck in this house.As soon as I can I will be ordering ty for your growing friendship.
Thanks! 🙂
I have planted my seedlings 2 days ago. I have 2000 watt full spectrum lad light. I have hung it 20 inches above the potted seeds. I am concerned it may be too close to the seedlings. Any advise would be helpful.
My advice to you is: Use T5 lamps or smaller 40 +/- led lamps for seedlings not high powered flowering lamps. Happy growing
how do you know if seeds are good?
Martín Garza,
Contact customer support at the forum link below!
Our seeds are guaranteed and always have high % of germination. It is possible that you did something wrong. IN fact; If you want to; I Suggest You Go Here: Support.Ilovegrowingmarijuana.Com Our Members And Staff Can Help Give You Informed Advice. We Have A Lot Of Topics That You Can Research. Share your issues and find that our seeds are very high quality and we are willing to help you as opposed to posting something negative towards you. 🙂 Happy growing
Ester, This is not a bug article Q and A. Here you go; I Suggest You Go Here: Support.Ilovegrowingmarijuana.Com Our Members And Staff Can Help Give You Informed Advice. We Have A Lot Of Topics That You Can Research.
None of the seeds I bought from you all have germinated and I have bought 300 shunk ferminaized very poor quality cheap quality
My plants are ready for flushing on there 4th day and they have tiny black bugs because the leaves have holes. Wat is it???
I have some plants that 2 are like 3 to 4 in tall and have white hairs coming out of top of plants the others have none .what’s up they are very small plants to have buds starting
Hey Robert it’s Gary here love love love your strains being said my seedlings r 4 days old what should my ph b for water and how long do I keep it at the # ?
hi ordered lsd seeds the last time buying ten , i have 1 seed sprout with tap root 9 seeds start to open then no more tap root growth so planted 2 weeks ago no plant growth 1 just ordered ten lsd seeds help please send best seeds
I used peat pellets the gold leaf where all pale and real small nothing happen got one left the other two pop then died that’s from the premium mix pack
Thanks so much! I live in south Texas. Its quit a challenge here. Thanks for all the tips!
Very helpful
Gravity??? WTF are you high? Think about what you just wrote there.
I don’t know what’s happend to my seed they just stop germination at half and I think that because adding Too much water
Ty very useful information i usually start with clones
Is the germination process the same with all seeds? I bought some auto flowering seeds and am not sure to germinate the same as feminized seeds.
Hey Peter, you can just germinate them the same way as you would on your regular fem seeds. 🙂
How do you get rid of p.m. when your plants are in the budding stage 4 weeks into it
Hi there planted my seeds , how long do i keep the lights on and when do i change to 18 hours on 6 hours off?
Susan. you should be on 18/6 from the start. This does away with guessing, and you do not have to reset your timer every grow. Think of it as if you planted outdoors; There is always a dark period. Even though you may read occasionally about using a 24/0 photo period. Do not. 24/0 is unnatural as plants need time to rest just like humans.
Very helpful but I like to start it where it’s going to be growing full term
Yes i agree, that is the way i do it and so far ive got a 100% germination rate. (15 plants so far)
I do the water germination, I use a half cup, and add seeds, 24 hours usually tells me which seeds are good or bad, as in if the seeds drop to the bottom of the cup they’re good, floaters I poke with my finger, and if they drop, ok. then I put em between moist paper towels, after 2-3 days the tap root is 1/4 – 3/8 in long, and I pick em up by the “husk” of the seed, and set em 1/4″ deep in good potting soil. Any way,,,If I’m starting them 4-6 weeks early, with my T5 and later after the first “pinch” with my 500 watt Bloom Boss,,,should I pay closer attention to daylight cycles so as not to shock em? Adjust my timer for on / off every 5 days or so? Like like 8 on and 16 off?
I put em out around May 5th
John Hayes,
If you have determined females and plan on moving plants to a dedicated location, do it now before there is any chance of contamination or pollination. Since you are sexing, I must assume you bought regilar seeds from somewhere. Perhaps feminized seeds would suit you better, if you do not plan to breed seeds. Happy growing 🙂
I am not optimistic about this attempt to be a grower again, I am out close to $200 over the last 2 or 3 month’s, and it looks like all i have to show for it ? is 3 small seedlings that survived a germination attempt with 12 seed’s. (not from ILGM) so I bought 20 or so seed’s from ILGM, over a week ago I attempted to germ 10 out of the 20 that I purchased. all ten popped and exposed there tales within 2 daysl, then 1 out of the 10 sprouted and started to show some leaf, I so I put that one in a cup with perlite and cocoa, and put it under a small powered grow light, that was almost a week ago. the other 9 seed’s I put into the little rockwell cube’s where they are still and not showing any signs of life. and the one that did pop and show leaf? has done nothing but stay frozen like a statue since its transplant over a week ago. I afraid that I have lost all ten out of ten seeds., that’s pretty sad. I want more seeds or my money back..
As long as you have your order number and contacts [email protected], you should get a response.
If all 10 seeds popped and only one grew; It is highly possible you have something going wrong. We have all of customers claim super high success rates during germination unless they are doing or applying something wrong.
Coco and perlite is a terrible medium for a sprouted seed. Use Pro Mix,r, or something without fertilizer. Coco causes PH problems. As far as seedling not growing. Seedlings must establish roots before you see top growth. Meanwhile it appears not to grow. Patience is key.
No nutrients or fertilizer should be used and water should be PH’d at 6.1-6.5
I suggest you join our polite and friendly support forum and allow us to help you figure out what you are ding wrong. No offense. It happens to everyone at 1st. 🙂
p.s. I start all mt ILGM seeds directly into rockwool. Soak the rockwool in warm water. Gently shake some excess water out…Gently!…Do no squish the cube. add seed into hole in cube and pull a little piece of the corner and light place it into the hole over seed. All my seeds pop in 2-3 days maximum using this tried and true method.
You are rite on the mark.I drop my seeds in water and when I see the tap root pop out I put it in the soil with a success rate of 100%.
I am planning on germination in peat containers and then going to 30 gallon grow bags. Any suggestions on soil ix for the bag?
from starter to 30 gallons is not efficient. You are going to waste a lot of soil because the roots will go to the bottom and all the upper soil will be unused. you must transplant in stages. several stages if you want to end up in 30 gallon pots. Any professional nursery or potting mix with peat, perlite, vermiculite, fungi, and dolomitic lime will do.
Happy growing.
theyre plants.just chuck em in water and voila,germination
theres no rocket science involved. Less is always better. dont change more than 1 thing at any time to see whats working and whats not.
most folk crash the 1st couple attempts so dont be discouraged
I’m just starting to germinate some seeds inrockwall .this guy says add low nutes I’ve always been told the seed has all it needs for at least the first few weeks from sprouting so I think it’s wrong to give low nutes rhixtonic is ok to spray o ‘ve there little plants it don’t feed for at least a week
should you add nutrients to the water when you first start to germinate the seeds in rockwool, or wait till they have some good root growth first?
Thanks as always for your excellent guides, Rob! I’m sprouting 5 plants in a dome at the moment, and they’re growing fast! I’ve been trying to keep my humidity between 50-60%, is this ideal? My temperature has been pretty steady around 21-23 Celsius.
What can I do to help seeds that pop just enough to show white, then stall out? Never had a problem before, but this batch of TrainWreck has done it 3 times now. According to Murphy’s Law #420.7, if I just germinate all the remaining ones, hoping for at least one to flourish, they will all take off and I will have more than I can use. Prefer to do one or two at a time, but apparently TrainWreck doesn’t like being the only one out there. My tapwater ph could be lower, @ 8ish. Maybe I will try some ph adjusted water. Thoughts?
I germinate my seeds the same way I make alfalfa and wheat sprouts , in wide mouth mason jars using screened lids found at natural food stores. Also been having success using my cloner and rooting directly in a foam insert, spraying 1 minute on, 10 off.
Matt,
Never add nutrients until you have at least 4-5 true sets of leaves which proves there is a root zone to take up nutrients. Be patient or you will kill your seedlings.
As far as sprouts not coming up; Many things could cause this. Mishandling the sprout, planting too deep, drowning sprout with too much water, etc, etc…
Try starting seeds directly into peat pellets after following proper prep for the pellets. 🙂
Join our forum at ILGM. We have many helpful and knowledgeable members always willing to help.
hi. new grower here and I have blueberry, pineapple haze, and strawberry kush germinated for 24 hours in wet napkin. got a tap root and put them in peat pellets. they are under a 6500k t5 grow light roughly 2″ above the pellet. the strawberry has came up and the other two have root started but haven’t popped outta dirt. it’s been 5 days since I put them in the pellets. I keep dirt moist around outside and spray top once a day. the one that popped has two 1/4″ true leaves and don’t seem to be growing now. should I add a lil nutes? on the one or all three? if not how long should I wait to add nutrients to babies? thank you for the info in advance
Live in small condo and need to use my kitchen for veg room. North facing double slider door. Can I run lights dark hours only? Or run lights 18 or 24. I am going to be using this space for clones, veg, mother(s), and re-veg heavy producers for future grows. I also have grown from old seeds a wonderful mystery strain. How do I find out what it is? Is it possible to produce seeds?
Hi Matthew, I see you have quite some questions. The best place to get answers is our support forum Our experts and fellow growers can answer all questions you may have
Hi”I’m a first time grower. some of my seeds are 30 years old, sister had them in a sealed tin. do you think they are any good???
Hi glo, 30 years is a long time! If stored cool and dry all that time they may still germinate. Only one way to find out 🙂
A bunch of them will be. Seeds live a long time in the wild and these were kept dark and dry. SOAK them in water until they sink or when you tap them they sink. Then I use paper towel method w/ great results. Just sprouted 9 seeds within 36 hours. First ones within 20 hours. If some don’t sprout remove from water, I know it says up to 7 days but that is not proper as seeds can drown after 24 hours. DO NOT throw away or give up on slow starters. Take an exacto, steel wool, anything abrasive will do. Scruff up the hull (don’t cut in) and soak again. More will sprout. I take remaining slow starters and repeat until all spout or becomes obvious it was DOA. I have had almost 100% success on “OLD” seeds.
What happens if the seed pod falls off while transferring from wet paper towel to soil? (transferred with tweezers and placed very smoothly)
Ketrenna,
As long as the sprout Cotyledon, was not damaged and you are referring to just the actual husk falling off, then you should not have any worry. – I❤️GM
Hello, im a first time grower in southern california. I have my seeds in water right now and am planning on putting them in the starter pots as soon as they sprout. What are average results of growing the plants in pots on a patio??
Hi Christine, there are too many factors in place to answer this question. I advise you to hop onto our support forum. Our experts there can help you out with your first grow and answer all your questions. – I❤️GM
I don’t grow outdoors anymore however when I did, I always planted at the correct phase of the moon and you’d be surprised by the difference it makes! I used to by a MoonChart every year but I’m sure Google would tell you the information. It’s nothing new as a growing tip. My grandfather was a farmer and always planted at the correct moon phase.
I live in NE. Pennsylvania and want to grow out doors. How soon can I plant oudoors. I plan on growing lowryder.
Having germination problems!! 72 degrees, is that air temp of the room OR the moist soil???
Roy,
During the propagation of seeds, we all like a warm humid climate. High humidity is key. Warm beds. Perhaps you need a heating mat.
We would love to see you around the support forum to share your experience. 🙂 – I❤️GM
A real newbie here! Have my grow space together. Going to soak the seeds 24 hours +- Then plant in 4″ peat pots I have Fox Farm’s soil Ocean Forest potting soil. Am I missing anything?
Hi Bob, you look ready to go. Be sure to hop onto our support forum. Fellow growers can help you with any questions you may have https://ilgmforum.com – I❤️GM
Paper towel method works best for me , I have 100% success rate , just did 5 white rhino and all seeds sprouted in 48 hours !!
budget wise i have to come up with other ideas to germinate my seeds ,, so this is it and it works great ,,get 6 toilet tissuses, fold 2 times , wet tissuses , put seeds onto paper , put second tissuse folded , on top, then get 2 container lids and put all paper onto one lid and put sm water onto paper so its just wet , add 2nd lid for top, put these onto electric blanket,on 1, with cover over top of whole thing , makes a awesm hot house,, oh blanket wz still on bed , make sure u check they dont dry out , and water frequently. they cracked overnight, and i left them till 3rd day , and into soil,, 3 were done and 3 cracked it .. yay
robert i have kept approximately 50-50 seeds for germination but my problem is that i might not have enough pots to grow one in each can i plant 6-7 plants in a 20 liter pot?
Mark,
We are not set up for intense grow support here in the blog.
I invite you to join our support forum where you can learn all the necessary points for growing successfully.
We have a couple grow mentors that live in Arizona under similar conditions and they can help guide you.
Thank you ILGM and Robert, I look forward to receiving my first order with you. I live in the desert, outside of Las Vegas to be exact. I intend to germinate and get started indoors using sunlight and then transplant to much larger pots and grow outdoors. My question, is how much heat and sunlight is too much? I had originally planned on shading and controlling it some on a open but covered patio, which they still would receive much light mainly morning and later afternoon for direct, but avoid the severe direct mid day summer sun. Around hear in summer we hit normal heat around 105-110F sometimes higher. So giving the plants sun won’t be an issue, I just don’t want to burn them up as most things will by mid summer. Watering is not an issue which I have a auto drip and sprinkler system controlled and programmable. Growing season again not an issue it is about to begin planting time here in no more than a couple of weeks, our winter is over and it was a cold month. Thank you in advance, I look forward to receiving the order.
Mark
It is important to start your grow with good quality seeds, bad seeds won’t get you a supergroup. I always order my seeds online, straight from Amsterdam. They have over 40 years of experience there and you notice it in their genetics. I can advise anyone looking for seeds to take a look at seedmarket.com, they have a great product range.
Hello there, I recently put a couple seeds down in Fox Farm soil. I am indoors , and the temp is controlled.
However, my seeds have been down longer than 7 days and they are under flouresents but no germination as of yet. What am I doing wrong ?
Hi Michael, there are a multitide of factors at work here. Actually too much to answer here. Best go onto our support forum and have our experts take a look. Create a topic there and supply as much info as possible and someone will help you out soon
Been soaking WW seed for 24 hours and it’s still floating at the top is this a bum seed or will it sprout ?
Hi Mike, we’ve seen seeds sprout after a week of soaking. I’m not saying this one will need that much time but give it a little more 🙂
Roy, I just started soaking my Patriot pack that I bought last October. I thought they seeds were supposed to sink after 10 or 20 minutes. been soaking for 12 hours. How long before I call these duds?
Fred,
You should download and read our free grow bible before you get started, and then I advise you to join our support forum. We have many knowledgeable growers and experts that can help guide you. The questions you are asking would be too much information for the blog comments. See you in the forums 🙂
Could you give comments on Deep Water Culture and LED grow lights? For indoor growing in Northern Climes, It allows more control of conditions. Thanks.
I have been successfully doing “deep water” with LED lights for over 3 harvests in NW Montana, great results each time gets better.
My ex-hippie born&bred girlfriend used to pop the seed/s under her tongue and continue doing odd jobs for a half hour or so- to get them nicely warm, wet and ready for their germination bed.
Kinda sexy at the time!
most of my seed didn’t germinate, the ones that did died a few days later. i followed the steps provided, and even tried different methods. Had the least amount of luck with the strawberry kush, gold leaf, and super skunk. None of strawberry kush germinated at all. (bummer) gold leafs germinated but died a few days later. super skunk germinated, grew for a bit then halted growth completely. The super silver haze are the only ones that seem to be legit… kinda bummed out due to the expense of purchasing 4 strains and only one seems to be thriving.
I soaked my ILGM seeds in water and they Popped within 24 hrs. Much better than the, paper towel method I”ve used in the past, Also am Now using MG potting soil for starting plants. Very easy Thanks
Soak in water 24 hours, into the soil outdoors. Mist multiple times daily until healthy. GL and WW Sprouts appear in 2 to 5 days.
I tried the small peat pods in the small plastic greenhouse. When I tried to pull the covering off the top gently the whole netting came off, and all I had was a pile of peat, in which I couldn’t find the seed, so I just kind of piled it up in the greenhouse and am hoping the seed is at the right depth. My first effort was successful soaking 1 seed for 24 hrs, getting a tap root, placing in rock wool and having under constant light from 2 CFCs from Home Depot, 2 30″ fluorescents, and spraying plant, and keeping soil moist with a Alaskan fish fert. mixture, recommended by pro growers out west. The plant is growing well, has a good strong stem, it’s in an 8″ pot and 6-7 ” tall and 6-7 groups of 3-5 leaf stems. Seems to be growing more out than up…time to move to 5 gal. Bucket? My point is I prefer the rock wool cubes, and be careful with the small peat pods
Problem solved . I put enough Mir. Grow pot. Soil into a 3gal pot, created suitable space for the transplant, removed plant from 8″ pot, roots growing well all around outer edge. I guess that may be why plant growing more out instead of growing up? Huh?
Problem solved . I put enough Mir. Grow pot. Soil into a 3gal pot, created suitable space for the transplant, removed plant from 8″ pot, roots growing well all around outer edge. I guess that may be why plant growing more out instead of growing up? Huh?
Griz,
More likely the plant is genetically disposed to bushiness. INdica maybe…
Just like to say that I keep things simple. I bought 10 white willow seeds. Put them in between 2 wet paper towels, put on a baggie, and put them on top of my hot water heater. In 3 days they had a root of about1″ and were ready to be put in a small pot with potting soil. I read from you Bible, great stuff!! Thanks! Jon
I have grown a few plants over the past few years. All the same way in a greenhouse in soil. Never had a problem germinating until this year the difference is I ordered seeds from this company. I bought five seeds one in each pot. I produced absolutely nothing from any of the seeds. Contacted customer service and they were absolutely no help at all. So it cost me 90.00 and not one of these seeds produced anything. I will never order from this company again.
Livin Hi in AR. USA delivered in 10 days Very impressive ! The Ozark Mts. of Arkansas makes for some Fine Livin ! I’m told, Hill Billies love it. Thanks for your contribution to my Happiness Thank You for a safe and expedient delivery.
All seeds showed up quickly, in water now waiting to germ. Fantastic service, thanks ilgm keep you posted on all stages of growth.
First time grower, gotta say “THANK YOU ” !!!!! All seeds arrived quickly and discreetly, I followed your germination recommendations and to say all 5 seeds germinated and are looking great for only 4 days in soil.Fingers crossed, and I’ll keep you posted on my results of your special blend, Goldleaf***. ILGM IS NUMBER 1 in my book, enjoy.
Thank you M! We look forward to your updates, If you have any questions let us know.
Taylor,
I can only assume that you are asking about growing outside. I am sure that there is a window of grow season in Laredo. I cannot tell you anything about the soil there, but I would grow indoors where you can provide what the plant needs.
So I’m new to this and super stoked. I live in southern Texas near Laredo. There is also a lot of oil in my town so I was wondering if it was even possible to grow with these conditions?
If you are going to start your seeds inside and plan to move the plants outside later; You really do need to pot them and allow them to become strong young plants before moving outdoors. I am not sold on the idea of growing them under a tree canopy. These plants need a minimum of 9 hours of direct Sunlight in order to thrive.
I plan on growing inside and transferring them to an outdoor place covered by trees and next to a river. I plan on using the peat pellets, but I won’t be able to use any special lighting. Would it be best to go from the pellets to a bigger pot or just straight to where I plan on growing them? And what would be the best seed for growing in central Texas?
Martin,
You can transplant to outdoors whenever you determine the plant to be strong enough to hold up against the wind, and after it has developed a strong root zone.
Hey Robert, Im plating outdoors but I germinate the seeds in a pot in my house and then transplant them. When would be the best moment to transplant?
Thanks!
Bob. I answered this question in another blog post. Posting the same question over and over, does not get you help any faster.
“Gold Leaf” by Robert Bergmann
What is the best seed for cancer lung. Indoor and outdoor. Want to make good oil.
Always keep an eye on temps in the room, tent, closet or…ETC.
Always make sure if you are growing ina hydroponics system to keep your water temps below 70f, 21c
I really love all of your articles and all that i can find, i am also a member of your blog.
So anyway as far as germinating seeds…what i do is soak them for about 24 hours in water,then i put them in jiffy pots at roughly a 1/4 inch deep,no deeper thou because the results seem to fall tremendously. So used to not soak them prior to planting them but they seem to come up quicker and more healthy..
grow happy, jay 🙂
I used to used the paper towel method of germination, but now I put the seeds between brand new sponges that I’ve moistened with water. I then places my seedling sandwich into a sandwhich bag and put the whole thing in a warm, dark place. I’ve had seeds germinate in as little as two days this way, with a taproot that clearly sticks out from the seedbody. Just remember to use new sponges as old sponges may harbor bacteria and fungi that can be harmful to your seedlings.
May all of you forever have a bountiful harvest.
Thanks Ghostwire, great tip!
Hey, what a great idea, do you keep a eye on the temp?
Hi i attempted to download your bible and it hasn’t come i’ve checked my spam and nothing there either
Hi Maz, Just email our customer service at [email protected] and they’ll make sure you get it!!
I use the compressed peat pods (“Jiffy Pellets”) for the initial planting of seed. They’re so easy and convenient to move and keep moist. Once the seed pops up and white roots are just barely poking through the sides and/or bottom of the pod, I then transplant into a larger commercial peat pot about the size of a large drinking glass filled with good growing medium. After the young plants mature to a solid adult stage (say, about the 4th or 5th pair of true leaves with at least 3-5 blades each), I then transplant pot and all into their final grow pots, 7 gallon-sized Smart Pots. Two transplantings and the roots are never exposed: seed into pod, pod into peat pot, peat pot into Smart Pot. Easy. Works every time.
Peat pots have no nutritional value to provide the rapidly growing plant. I plant in the small jiffy pod and once the seedling has grown for a week or so I place the pod directly in the soil in a small pot with ocean forest soil and no fertilizer as the ocean forest has all the natural nutrients your plant needs for a few weeks and it wont burn it.
Hi, Another great read full of the best tips. Many thanks.
newby at growing, love all the qt. and ans. and advice. it is complicated when you have limited $ and room. 65 on fixed income. old vet. hippy. love my herb. keep it green. I want to grow one or two plants to see if I can do it right and don’t know the minum to make it work. love some hinks!!!!!!!!!!
Try YouTube videos..some are good, some not. Bare basic Lighting: standard cfl’s with a 3 or 4 bulb bath light fixture with socket splitters. Can get 6 or 8 bulbs on one fixture, need the 6500k. I think the homedepot 27w have something like 1600 lumens each, with 8 bulbs you’ll get 12800 lumens. Grow space: try rigid foam board, cheap, insulated, easy to cut and tape. Fertilizer: can get pricey. I believe something on this order will work well for 2 plants and hard to get any cheaper. Just my thoughts you’ll need to see what works for you. Good Luck.
” If you water it too little”
A tip, most people over water.
It’s easy to fix under watered, its hard to fix over-watered
A good way to learn to water any plant, is ti pick the plant and pot up before you water it when its dry. Then after a good watering, after its soaked in completly. Pick it up again. After a while you will get use to knowing when it needs to be watered from picking it up, and just sticking a finger into the dirt.
If you stick you finger in the soil a couple inches and it feels like wet beach sand, its way too wet.
What are the best seeds for central Minnesota?
addition to my last message… this is what Hortilux claims…”HORTILUX BLUE is the closest match to natural sunlight of any light source available today” But, isn’t Sulfur Plasma closer match to sunlight?
with so many choices of lighting to use, which would you suggest is the best? ie..
Metal Halide, HPS, T5, LED,Induction Lighting or Sulphur Plasma? I did find this website with a comparison of all these types of lights, and it seems to show sulfur being the best, if I understand it correctly. Dont know if Sulfur puts out a lot of heat though? https://www.plasma-i.com/sulphur-plasma-light.htm
Robert, can you give us your professional opinion here? Thanks
I have not had the chance to read all of the bible yet, but 2 things I need to ask, you dont mention the double ended light style, or sulpher plasma, LED nor anything about the Blue spectrum and its importance and effect? can you help everyone with some feed back on this?
Also, when growing with hydroponics, should the nutrient strength be diluted as you mention for soil plants?
My questions are pertaining to hydro-P (AKA..hydroponics)
Thanks
I started with a bag of about 15-20 seeds I turned the dirt over 12″x12″ in my backyard outside picked out all the grass and just drop all 15-20 seed and now I have abou1 5-20 planets come up like side by side is thay ok to leave them like that because thay planned in my backyard not in pots?
So Florida has perfect weather for growing. Especially now that it’s raining so much in Miami, then pure sunshine, the vegetative states should be at soaring heights
Thanks for sharing!!
I had 90% germination of my seeds by putting them in warm water in shot glasses. Then I sat the glasses on top of my hot water heater in the closet — in the dark. Within a few days some had roots growing.
Great! Thanks for sharing your experience Diane!
When is it a good time to start planting in So Florida? I’m having problems with my plants are always stunted these pass two times I’m trying to grow. and I’m growing outside in the back yard…Thanks in Advance
I start indoors in jiffy pots during april through early june and when four true leaves appear move them out side I get enormous plants and bud using horse manure,compost tea,worm castings and a little blood and bone meal also plenty of sun .Make sure your seeds are for outdoors and for tropical type of weather.also make sure if in pots there is good drainage,so when the rains start your plants wont drown.good luck
Thanks for all your tips and sharing your experience Danielle!
i grow at 8000 lumens a square foot and never have plants that streach, biggest thing is to have proper light
hi Robert. well after much anticipation and worry, i finally have 2 seedlings. i’m sure there will be others very soon. my question now,,,,light requirements, and how far away should the light source be, to prevent spindly growth. that has always been my biggest problem in the past. any help would be greatly appreciated.
thanks
gary
Hi Gary,
Put the lights as close as possible but don’t let temperatures exceed 76 degrees. Fluorescent lights are great for seedlings…
Robert
I’m having issues I can’t diagnose via your forums and Grow Bible. How do I obtain Plant Care?
In your book you talk about the white light being 4″ from the leaves. The light is 240 w. For how long does this last till I move the plants to the yellow light?
Yellow n red lights turned to 12 on 12 off will let ur plants no that the end of summer is near and let’s ur plants no it’s time to start flowering. use a light for veg. that has more blue lumins this is great for veg. stage
Enjoy reading grow guide. Like your weekly tips and tutorials. Great service on seed orders. TY
I WOULD HAVE TO SAY PLACING THE SEEDS IN A SMALL BOWL OF ROOM TEMP. WATER IS THE BEST WAY.24 TO 48 HR. U GOT A TAP ROOT SHOWING THAT ALL U GOT TO DO IS USE SMALL TWISERS TO PICK UP AND PLACE ROOT STRIGHT DOWN IN WHATEVER U USE TO GROW THE PLANT. TO MANY GROWING MED. TO GO INTO. WITHIN ANOTHER 24 TO48 HOURS UR PLANT WILL COME UP IN THE CRUCK. ( NOT STRIGHT UP) GIVE IT A DAY OR TWO AND IT WILL REACH FOR LIGHT. THE SEED HUSK MAY STAY ON IT UP TO THIS POINT. IT WILL COME OFF AND TWO LEAFS WILL SHOW. IF THE STALK GETS TO TALL TO QUICK USE 1/8 IN. DOW ROD BESIDE IT AND TIE A BREAD TIE EASY AROUND BOTH TO KEEP IT FROM BREAKING OVER. AND AWAY THEY GROW.
quick and easy thanks 🙂
what is the best way to store remaining seeds to keep them fresh and viable for my next grow.???
Hi Mike,
It’s best to store them at a cool, dark and dry place. A fridge is perfect
Robert
Wanting start. Thanks for this info…
Second grow started…I learned a lot with my first grow, not a positive experience with seed germination. This time around I read intensely and studied your Grow Bible, especially the germination section. I decided to use two methods together, glass of water soak for 24-28 hours, then planted seeds in jiffy pods in a grow dome. On day 4 in the grow dome 1 seed sprouted, on the fifth day all seeds had sprouted, which was this morning! I’m stoked to say the least! I bought my White Widow and Blueberry seeds from here and I was holding my breath that I’d get 100% germination results, which I have. Thank you for stellar seeds and stellar growing info! Kudos!!!
Great! Thanks for sharing your experience…
Robert
Peter, the best type of fluorescent lights for germination and vegetation period are T5 HO (high output) with a color temperature of 6500K
Wanting start. Thanks for this info…
Hi Robert can you tell me what is the best type of Fluro light for germination, I’m
using rockwool and trying to grow indoors in a tent using water hydro instead of
soil, I have Gold seeds, can this be achieved using water instead of soil with these
seeds
Thanks Peter.
Thanks! I need all the help I can get. I don’t have any experience growing indoors!!
If you put the new root tip facing down with the pointed end up, you’ll have better results. Less stress on the new sprout this way. When the seeds sprout, if you have ever noticed, the root tip will ALWAYS grow up for a short ways, then will curve back down toward the bigger end. That’s why it’s best to always put the pointed end up.
To verify, put some seeds in a moist paper towel with the pointed ends facing the same way. Put a few with the big end up & some sideways for a control. Put the seeds in the moist paper towel into a baggie, then hang over your low heat sprouting source. The results will speak for them selves. Just be sure the seeds can’t move around, the baggie is straight up & down, not lying flat & some of the seeds are pointing straight up.
The above paragraph is an old hippe sprouting trick to keep the roots from going crazy if your seeds germ earlier than anticipated.
Not trying to argue, you can place your seeds any way you want. I am just saying that ‘pointed end up’ is the most efficient method.
Thanks.
mM
Thanks for the tip and sharing medMUser.
Thanks, this was very helpful.
Please do yourself a favor. Buy clones to start. You’re guaranteed to get a female plant, and just one male will ruin your whole harvest. I grew my first time with seeds. I didn’t know how to tell the difference between the two, even though my brother in law explained to me what a make looked like, it’s EXTREMELY difficult, especially your first time, to tell the difference. I germinated my seeds in a wet paper towel and it worked beautifully. I probably pruned and dried to early out of anticipation, but the males fertilized the females and I ended up with more seeds than weed. I’m trying to find some Massachusetts laws on cultivation if anyone can help me!!
Thanks for your support