Seed Germination

If you read our online reviews on our website and social media, you'll see that customers report very successful germination rates with Mary's Heirloom Seeds.  Growing from seed can be tricky so here's a bit of information to help you get started.

What is Seed Germination?

Germination is the process of seeds developing into plants.  Environmental conditions need to be right in order for seeds to germinate.  Several factors are involved if/when a seed germinates.

Water is a crucial factor in seed germination.  Too much water or not enough water can affect seed germination and growth.

Temperature is also an important factor is seed germination.  Some seeds prefer cool weather or even "overwintering."  Most seeds germinate when soil temperature is between 68 and 86 degrees fahrenheit.

Cold Stratification

Cold stratification is the process of subjecting seeds to both cold and moist conditions. Seeds of many trees, shrubs and perennials require these conditions before germination will ensue

Quite a few herb and flower varieties require cold stratification.  Some of these include: Butterfly bush, Comfrey, English Lavender, perennial sweet pea, Verbena, Lupine, St. John's Wort, Larkspur, Coneflower and more

Scarification

Seed Scarification involves weakening, altering or weakening the coat if a seed to encourage germination. 

Nasturtium seeds kind of look like small brains.  When I volunteer at local schools I say they look like monkey brains and the kids usually laugh or say "gross."  Nasturtium seeds can benefit from scarification prior to planting.

 Watch our video on Seed Germination for more info.