How to Grow Seeds

Seed germination means that a seed is revived from its dormant state to begin the process of root and leaf production. Seed germination sounds impressive, and it is. Some seeds can remain dormant for hundreds or even thousands of years and still be germinated to create a healthy plant, which will grow to be many hundreds of times bigger than the original seed.

But how are seeds able to perform these incredible feats? Soil is an important factor for seed germination because soil provides many of the elements that seeds need to thrive.

A Welcoming Environment
Proper soil creates a healthy home for seed germination. Seeds have basic needs that must be met for germination to occur:

• Water. Seeds need the correct amount of moisture to become active. The average seed needs to increase its moisture content from the normal 5% to 10%, up to 50% for germination to occur. Soil provides a way for water to be held near the seed so that it can be absorbed.
• Air. The voids between soil particles allow air to pass through them. Seeds buried under soil need oxygen to continue to grow once they have received enough moisture.
• Temperature. For seed germination to take place, seeds need to be kept at a specific temperature. Soil keeps seeds insulated from the extremes of temperature and allows them to germinate successfully.

How Dense Is Your Soil?
Soil density can have a big effect on successful seed germination. Loose soil (like sandy soil) will drain water too quickly, making it hard for seeds to become hydrated. Dense soils (like clay soil) make it hard for light and air to penetrate the soil, making it difficult for seeds to breathe and become active.

Inappropriate soil types must be amended to provide the basic requirements of seeds for successful seed germination.