Getting Our Seeds in Soil

Week One: From Seed to Seedling

After picking your favorite cultivar thats best suited to your environment and mixed your seed starting medium its time to get those seeds into their new home. You wouldn’t think that getting a seed to sprout would be so complicated, why do I need to take so may steps. Truth be told more often than not germination doesnt take much more than putting a seed in some soil, but some growers like to have more control over their grow or just like partaking in a ritual, “it must be done to ensure a good end result” kind of thinking. lets take a look at some popular methods and at the end you can choose what method you would like to try first. whats most important is that the seedlings are strong enough to withstand their environment. remember we’re trying to grow resilient weed here. and sometimes our setups aren’t the most ideal.

we will also be learning about what our seedlings will look like starting from our first sprouts to our first true leaves, what container to start in and our main challenges in transplanting, over watering and climate control.

II. Germination Methods – The Starting Line

A. Paper Towel/Cotton Pad Method

This method is popular for its simplicity and ease of monitoring germination. It’s particularly useful for growers who want a high level of control and enjoy visually tracking the sprouting process. However, it’s not without its risks. While generally effective, the extra step of transplanting seedlings introduces a chance of damage. Close observation is key to prevent the paper towel or cotton from drying out or becoming overly wet, which can lead to seed death or mold growth. Handle germinated seeds with extreme care when transplanting to avoid damaging the delicate taproot. Direct sowing methods may be preferable for the more experienced cultivator that trusts that their seeds will germinate in their medium.

Materials needed:

• spray bottle
• small sandwich bag
• napkin or 2 cotton pads used for make up removal, I prefer to use cotton pads as they allow for more aeration)
• marker
• painters tape, to label your bag and mark the date you started
• water
• packet of your magic beans

STEP 1

Take your paper towel, double it up and fold in half or take two cotton pads and slightly dampen with a couple sprays off your bottle

STEP 2

open your pack of seeds, take all seeds out, and place in between damp paper or cotton pads

STEP 3

Place parcel inside sandwich bag and close seal halfway

STEP 4

Label bag with Tape and marker, denoting strain, photoperiod or autoflower and start date

STEP 5

Place entire sandwich package in a safe warm dark area

STEP 6

Repeat with other seeds if you’re running multiple strains

B. Score and Soak Method

This method is generally used for faster germination times when using seeds that have harder and thicker shells or older seeds. Not likely necessary with most modern cultivars as they will readily germinate under most normal conditions. Do practice caution with this method. we are only trying to lightly thin out a section of the seeds hull so as to make water absorption faster and easier, however if we rub our seeds too much and end up scratching and damaging the seed embryo within our efforts may very likely be wasted.

Materials Needed:

Small, clean container (glass or plastic)

Distilled water or pH-balanced water

Fine-grit sandpaper (or nail file, very fine)

Small tweezers (optional)

STEP 1

Take your sandpaper or nail file. Gently abrade the seed coat on the opposite side from the seed’s “eye” (the small, slightly indented point where the seed will sprout). A few light strokes are enough. The goal is to thin the shell, not to penetrate it deeply.

STEP 2

Place the scored seeds in your container.

STEP 3

Pour the distilled or pH-balanced water over the seeds, ensuring they are fully submerged.

STEP 4

Soak seeds for 12-24 hours in a dark, room-temperature place. Monitor the seeds; some may sink to the bottom as they absorb water.

STEP 5

After soaking, proceed to plant the seeds in your chosen grow medium. (See “Direct Sow” method below).

C. Hydrogen Peroxide Method

Hydrogen peroxide can be a useful tool to improve cannabis seed germination rates by softening the seed coat, increasing oxygen availability, and controlling pathogens. However, it must be used with caution, as high concentrations can be harmful and “burn” the seed or seedling. Always dilute properly and monitor seeds closely.

Materials Needed:

Small, clean container (glass or plastic)

3% Hydrogen Peroxide (from the drugstore)

Distilled water

Measuring cup or spoons

STEP 1

Dilute the 3% hydrogen peroxide with distilled water to achieve a concentration of approximately 0.5% (e.g., mix 1 part 3% H2O2 with 5 parts distilled water).

STEP 2

Place your seeds in the clean container.

STEP 3

Pour the diluted hydrogen peroxide solution over the seeds, ensuring they are fully submerged.

STEP 4

Soak seeds for a short period – 1-3 hours is typically sufficient. Avoid prolonged soaking, as it can damage the seeds.

STEP 5

Carefully drain the hydrogen peroxide solution.

STEP 6

Rinse the seeds gently with distilled water.

STEP 7

Proceed to plant the seeds in your chosen grow medium (See “Direct Sow” method below) or another germination method.

D. Direct Sow into Grow Medium/Seedling Mix

Direct sowing can be a convenient and effective method for growing cannabis, especially for experienced growers in controlled environments. However, it also carries a higher risk of germination failure and seedling loss. For beginners or those growing in less-than-ideal conditions, starting seeds indoors and then transplanting may be a more reliable approach. Choosing between direct sowing and transplanting depends on factors like your experience level, growing environment, cannabis strain, and desired level of control.

Materials Needed:

Seedling tray or small pots

Seedling mix (light and airy, such as a coco coir and perlite blend or a specialized seed starting mix)

Water (distilled or pH-balanced)

Spray bottle

Small dibber or pencil

STEP 1

Fill your seedling tray or pots with the seedling mix. Gently compress the soil, leaving about ½ an inch of space from the top.

STEP 2

Moisten the soil thoroughly but avoid making it soggy. Use a spray bottle to gently saturate the mix.

STEP 3

Use your finger or a dibber to create a small hole in the center of each pot/cell. Aim for a depth of about ¼ to ½ inch (6-12mm).

STEP 4

Carefully place one seed in each hole.

STEP 5

Gently cover the seed with the seedling mix. Lightly tamp down the soil.

STEP 6

Mist the surface of the soil again with water.

STEP 7

Place the seedling tray or pots in a warm, humid environment (ideally 70-80°F/21-27°C). A humidity dome can be helpful.

STEP 8

Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Check daily and mist as needed.

STEP 9

Wait patiently! Germination times vary, but seedlings typically emerge within 3-10 days. Provide gentle light once seedlings emerge (see the lighting section in your main document).

III. From Germination to Seedling: Days 3-7

Seedling Environment – Indoor vs. Outdoor

After germination and planting, a key decision is whether to nurture the seedlings indoors or transition them outdoors. Indoor cultivation offers significant advantages: a controlled, safer environment with fewer pests, precise temperature and humidity regulation to prevent issues like drying out or damping-off, and consistent light exposure – vital for early growth. Indoor starts provide a head start with optimized conditions.

However, if the goal is to cultivate plants exceptionally hardy to your native environment, a different approach may be advantageous. Consider direct sowing outdoors or early outdoor transplant in an ideal location, especially if you have a surplus of seeds from previous breeding projects or ‘bag seeds’ saved from seeded bud that you’ve already consumed. By letting nature take its course, you allow natural selection to favor the most resilient plants. The weaker seedlings will perish, while the strongest will thrive, adapting to the local climate and conditions. This method prioritizes long-term hardiness over early control.

Transplanting cannabis seedlings outdoors in their first week is exceptionally risky and should be avoided unless absolutely necessary. If you must transplant, take extreme precautions to minimize root disturbance and protect the seedlings. Ideally, wait several weeks until the seedlings are more mature and have been properly hardened off.

Lighting is Key – Preventing Stretch

Seedlings stretch because they’re reaching for light; not getting enough. We want a good, full-spectrum light. using a good quality light sensor or app on your phone we can measure our light levels. Shoot for PPFD levels around 150-250 µmol/m²/s during this early seedling stage. Keep the light close – adjust the distance based on the type (LEDs closer than HID). If they are stretching, lower the light distance or give them some support.

Watering and Humidity – Finding the Balance

Gotta water ’em right – not too much, not too little. Keep the soil moist, not soaked. Seedlings like humidity, around 60-70%. Use a humidity dome or humidifier to keep the levels up, or dehumidifier to lower it if you are in an extrememely humid indoor environment.

Preventing Damping Off

Damping off is a fungal disease that kills and eats seedlings. it causes them to wilt, topple over and develop a slimy, brown stem seen at the soil line, leading to the plants death. This happens when we overwater, keep our environments too humid and have poor airflow and drainage in our grow space. Use “clean” soil, Oxymoron I know, but use soil from brands that you trust or soil that you have used in your own garden. In short give your girls enough airflow around them using small fans, or placing them where they get a gentle cross breeze, they shouldn’t be bending down to the ground, and give them just enough water to sip from. if you see any signs of dampening off or powdery mildew be quick to dispose of the plant. its heartbreaking I know, but this will only strengthen our crops in the long run.

IV. General Germination & Seedling Tips

Temperature and Humidity: Seeds benefit from warm temperatures (70-80°F or 21-27°C) to initiate germination. Seedlings thrive in slightly cooler conditions (65-75°F or 18-24°C). Maintain a relatively high humidity (60-70%) during the early stages to prevent dehydration.

Cleanliness is Essential: Utilize clean tools, pots, and trays. Sterilize these items with a diluted bleach solution to minimize the risk of contamination. Unhygienic conditions can quickly spread disease.

Troubleshooting Common Issues:

Failure to Sprout: Potential causes include aged seeds, insufficient warmth, excessive or inadequate moisture, or planting at an improper depth.

Stunted Growth: Possible contributing factors are inadequate lighting, excessively low temperatures, overwatering, or nutrient imbalances.

Mold Formation: This typically indicates overly damp conditions and insufficient airflow. Improve ventilation and consider the cautious application of a fungicide, if necessary.

Identifying Nutrient Deficiencies: Discoloration or spotting on the leaves may indicate a nutrient deficiency. Consult visual resources depicting cannabis nutrient deficiencies to aid in diagnosis. Begin nutrient supplementation conservatively.

V. Conclusion

Selecting an appropriate germination strategy and providing diligent seedling care lays the foundation for a successful cultivation process. Experiment with various techniques to discover the methods that best suit your individual preferences and growing environment. Our next topic will address Week 2, preparing for vegetative growth and transplanting. Please share your insights with your fellow cultivators via the comments—all knowledge is valuable.