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Princeville, IL

After 0 for 15 start trying to germinate seeds older than 2004 I have a new batch soaking in a 300 ppm giberillac acid bath. How long would you recommend I soak them?

5/7/2019 5:09:06 PM

Oak Grove, Mn

I did not get the 901 Hunt to pop. I somewhat wished I had tried giberillac acid. I have it available, but was concerned about what I have read about how it negatively affects the plant. I tried a 24 hour soak. The seed was very discolored to begin with and not completely developed.

http://www.bigpumpkins.com/Diary/DiaryViewOne.asp?eid=302307

I have held this seed for 4-5 years...I am wondering if I will ever get another chance. The 1678 Hunt was one of my first dream pumpkins.

5/7/2019 9:23:01 PM

JACKSON, WISCONSIN. ; )

Good luck

5/8/2019 9:19:13 AM

50 Acres

For those who soak, and some don't. I've noticed it seems to be 8 to 24 hrs. I soak 20 hrs max, usually just overnite. For the older ones I inspect every 8 hrs to see if the seed is swelling, absorbing moisture. I pot with a drier potting mix than normal. I use 10 52 15 a very weak mixture and have had luck with it. Good luck with the older seeds. I started today one of your 742uow today. I hope it fires up. It could be a good one. Jim

5/8/2019 7:16:41 PM

Morgantown, WV

Joe, I really like Jim's answer here, rings a lot of bells with me. Can't give an absolute amount of time, but I agree with feeling the seed every few hours or so. It will plump if alive, it will squish if dead.

I also like the idea of a drier mix after the soak. Only for a day or two to draw out any excess moisture.

I have GA, but have only played with it to reverse sex on plants, and it did not go according to plan. Don't really know if I got the ratio correct, or it didn't want to change, or what, but hormones = trouble if you don't get em just right.

I would recommend the method Jim suggested, checking every few hours after 8 or so, a full day so to speak. I'd probably pull at about 24 hours no matter the results, and try pill box or paper towel from there.

Good luck Joe, if I had some old seeds, I'd be trying with you for better advice.

5/8/2019 9:21:40 PM