When cannabis seeds do not germinate in the ground, several factors may be involved. Understanding why this phenomenon occurs is essential to the success of your future crops. This article explores the different potential reasons for germination failure and proposes concrete solutions to remedy them.
Seed quality
The quality of seeds is fundamental to guarantee good germination. Old or poorly stored seeds are often less viable. Signs of poor quality include a very light shell that appears empty inside, or visible cracks in the seed shell. To test the viability of a seed, simply place it in a glass ofwater : if it sinks to the bottom, there is a good chance that it is fertile.
Inadequate environmental conditions
Insufficient or excessive humidity
One of the keys to successful germination is maintaining an adequate moisture balance. Too dry soil will prevent the seed from absorbing the water it needs to wake up. Conversely, excess water can lead to mold or root rot. It is recommended to keep the soil moist but not saturated, for example using a spray bottle to precisely control the amount of water supplied.
Incorrect temperature
Cannabis seeds require a constant temperature between 20°C and 25°C to germinate effectively. Temperatures that are too low slow their metabolism and prolong or prevent germination, while temperatures that are too high can damage or kill the seed. Use a thermometer to monitor soil temperature regularly.
Improper planting depth
Planted too deeply earth, cannabis seeds may have difficulty breaking through the soil surface. The ideal depth for planting should be 1 to 2 centimeters. At this depth, the seeds will have enough darkness to stimulate germination while being close enough to the surface that the young plant can easily reach air and light.
Poor soil quality
The type of soil used can greatly influence the germination process. Too compacted soil does not allow good aeration and can limit root growth. Choose light, well-drained soil, enriched with organic nutrients. You may also consider using perlite or vermiculite to improve soil texture and aid aeration and drainage.
Insufficient pre-germination treatment
Certain practices can significantly increase germination success rates. Before planting your seeds in the ground, you can soak them in lukewarm water for 24 to 48 hours to activate their metabolism. However, make sure that this period is not exceeded because the seeds can then suffer from anoxia (lack of oxygen) and die before even being planted.
Proposed solutions
- Systematically check the quality of seeds before planting.
- Maintain adequate humidity and temperature based on the specific needs of the cannabis.
- Choose soil suitable for seedlings and enrich it if necessary to ensure good root development.
- Don’t bury your seeds too much – a light covering of soil will be enough.
- Consider pre-germination treatments like soaking to optimize germination.
Summary of key points
There are several factors that impact the germination of cannabis seeds in soil. Ensuring seed quality, adjusting environmental conditions such as humidity and temperature, ensuring the proper depth when planting, choosing quality soil, and applying pre-germination treatments are crucial steps to improve the germination of your cannabis seeds.
