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Owensboro, Ky.

I have read in several different threads, a multitude of formulas for soaking seeds prior to germination. I would like to see what you soak seeds in and why? Also length of soak time and why? All help appreciated. Peace Wayne

2/20/2005 6:18:31 AM

Cornwall UK.(50N 5W)300ft.

Wayne,
I soak my seeds in a solution of warm water and hydrogen peroxide at 0.035% concentration.In my case that is 1ml of 17.5% H2O2 diluted in 500ml of water.That was the recommended rate in the products instructions.
Hydrogen Peroxide is a sterilising agent and the extra oxygen it supplies also speeds up the germination process although I have found this more noticable with seeds other than pumpkins.
The reason that I soak my seeds is because the solution is sterile and that means that when the seed initially swells up from its dried out state its not absorbing anything undesirable.It also means that it is exposed to any pathogens in my starting mix for a shorter period of time.
I soak for about 8-12 hours which is long enough for the seed to get saturated.I want the seed to do its germinating in the soil because of the resistance of the soil against the seed coat.

Mark

2/20/2005 7:50:11 AM

Hilpoltstein, Bavaria, Germany

The H2O2 product I have available is a 3% solution. I dilute it 1:1 with water, add 1 teaspoon soluble seaweed extract to half a litre of solution and soak the seeds in this for about 12h. Also, all is kept at a constant 30°C.
After that seeds are transferred to the seed starting mix.

Martin

2/20/2005 3:37:38 PM

Utah

30°c = 86°f

2/22/2005 10:20:34 AM