Unfortunately, many new gardeners are not familiar with this old trick of soaking seeds before planting. Luckily, when you soak seeds, it significantly reduces the time that seeds take to germinate. There are many benefits of germinating your seeds before planting them, and here we’ll discuss some of them.
Why Should You Germinate Your Seeds Before Planting Them?
Most gardeners know that vegetable gardening can be intimidating. When you start with a seed, you never know how many of them will germinate. Therefore, it’s essential to soak seeds in warm water before planting them. It will increase the germination rate by removing the natural defense of seeds.
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Benefits of Soaking Seeds before Planting Them
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As mentioned earlier, germinating your seeds before planting them can be beneficial in many ways. So, let’s discuss some most important benefits of soaking seeds before planting.
1. Soften the Shell
Seeds are vital for plants’ growth. They work best when they get nutrients from the soil, sunlight, and water. Seeds work best when they get out of the hard shell in which they are encased. Therefore, when you soak them in the warm water, it softens the shells of seeds. As a result, the germination process becomes easier.
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2. Guarded with Inhibitors
This practice can prevent seeds from germinating inside the fruits. Soaking seeds in warm water will wash seeds from inhibitors and speed up the germination process.
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3. Create Necessary Moisture Level
It allows seeds to understand when to germinate, considering the moisture level and temperature of the surrounding environment. When you soak seeds before planting, it helps them create the necessary moisture level required for germination. Moreover, the warmth of the water signals seeds that now it’s time to grow.
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How to Soak Seeds?
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Now you understand the benefits of soaking seeds before planting them. The next question is how to do it? Follow the below-given steps for soaking seeds to increase the rate of germination.
1. Get a Shallow Bowl and Place Seeds in It
Soaking seeds is easy, and it will not take much time and effort. Take a shallow bowl and then place seeds in it. Pour some warm water into the bowl. Ensure that there is enough room in the bowl because seeds will expand when soaked in water.
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2. Allow Seeds to Be Soaked Completely
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Ensure that you soak them in warm water for at least 12 hours. Don’t worry if the water gets cooled. Remember; don’t allow seeds to sit in water for more than 24 hours. If you don’t do that, it will result in seeds rotting.
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3. Watch the Weather before Planting Seeds
Once you finish soaking seeds, ensure that you watch the weather before planting them. Don’t wait for too long after soaking them because it can mold or rot them when you wait for too long. If you’re sure that you’ll plant seeds the next day and then soak them otherwise, don’t do that.
So, follow this process for soaking seeds to enjoy the benefits of germinating seeds before planting them.
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