Techniques to Check Seed Vigor: Straightforward Approaches for Ascertaining Seed fertility
Need to test the seeds you saved from last year to see if they're still viable? Here's a simple guide to perform a seed germination test at home, ensuring a successful garden season ahead.
Remember back in elementary school when we used to test beans by wrapping them in damp paper towels? Well, that was a seed germination test, and it's just as useful now as it was back then.
These basic tests can help you determine if your seeds are still alive, allowing you to plan a bountiful garden this year. While it won't guarantee a 100% success rate, it'll give you a better idea of what you're working with.
Seed Germination Tests
The Paper Tower Germination Test
This simple method works for various seeds, making it an excellent choice for those just starting out. Here's how to do it:
- Grab some paper towels, and spread out 10-20 seeds of the same type along one side. label the paper towel with the seed type and date.
- Dampen the paper towel using a spray bottle, making sure it's wet but not dripping.
- Fold the damp towel in half, placing the seeds in between.
- Put the folded towel into a plastic bag or a container with a lid to keep things airtight.
- Place the container somewhere out of the way, ideally in a warm spot.
After a few days, check on your seeds. If some have sprouted, you can remove them, record the number, and add them to your compost or garden planner. If seeds remain, dampen the towel again and return it to the container.
Continue checking every few days, maintaining moisture but not making it too wet. Most seeds will germinate within a week, but it might take longer for some. Be patient and consult your seed packet for an estimated timeline.
The Jar Germination Test
For seeds that need light to sprout, like herbs, use this method instead:
- Place a few dampened paper towels on the bottom of a jar, ziplock bag, or clear plastic container.
- Lay the seeds over the paper towels.
- Store the container near a light source and follow the steps mentioned for the paper towel method.
Testing Peppers and Tomatoes
These warm-weather crops require some extra attention. They need potassium nitrate to germinate, which paper towels and water alone can't provide. You can find potassium nitrate at the garden center, mix it with water, and use this solution to dampen the seeds during the test.
What to Do with the Results
Once you finish your tests, be sure to record the results in your garden log. To calculate the germination percentage, divide the number of healthy seedlings by the total number of seeds tested, then multiply by 100.
If the germination rate is low, try sprouting the seeds in seed starter mix. They may just need the soil to get going. If that works, you can save some seeds for your garden.
But if your seeds don't sprout, it might be time to buy new seeds. While low germination rates won't completely ruin your garden, relying on them might not yield the desired results.
Now that you've learned this simple method, you can test your seeds with confidence and be ready to sow your garden with success this year. Happy gardening!
After conducting a seed germination test using paper towels, you'll gain insights into the health of your saved seeds from last year, enabling you to prepare for a successful home-and-garden season ahead. This simple test, which involves wrapping seeds in damp paper towels, is a handy tool for determining the viability of seeds, providing crucial information for your gardening lifestyle.
