I was able to germinate these sunflower seeds in 5 days despite true germination time was expected to be 10-14 days. I did so by incorporating 3 of the seed sowing methods listed below.
Germinating seeds using aluminum foil is a relatively simple process that can be done in a few easy steps. Here’s one method you can use:
Take a sheet of aluminum foil and fold it in half to create a double-layered sheet.
Place the seeds on one half of the foil, leaving some space between each seed.
Fold the other half of the foil over the seeds, so that they are completely enclosed.
Place the foil packet in a warm, moist location, such as on top of a seedling heat mat or in a warm propagator.
Keep the foil packet in the warm, moist location until the seeds germinate. You may need to keep the surface moist during germination period.
Once the seeds have germinated, open the foil packet and carefully remove the seedlings.
plant the seedlings in soil or potting mix, and place them in a location with bright, indirect light.
It is important to note that different types of seeds may have different germination requirements. You should check the seed packet or do some research to find out what the ideal germination conditions are for the specific type of seed you are trying to germinate. And also make sure to use good quality seeds.
Also this method of germination may not be suitable for all type of seeds, It’s just an option, you can use other method like paper towel or soil germination method too.
Germinating seeds using aluminum foil and peat pots is a slightly more involved process than the previous method, but it allows you to transplant the seedlings directly into the garden or larger containers without disturbing their delicate roots. Here’s one method you can use:
Take a sheet of aluminum foil and fold it in half to create a double-layered sheet.
Place the seeds on one half of the foil, leaving some space between each seed.
Fold the other half of the foil over the seeds, so that they are completely enclosed.
Place the foil packet in a warm, moist location, such as on top of a seedling heat mat or in a warm propagator.
Keep the foil packet in the warm, moist location until the seeds germinate. You may need to keep the surface moist during germination period.
Once the seeds have germinated, and sprouted, carefully remove them from the foil and gently press them into small peat pots filled with seed-starting mix.
Water the peat pots well and cover them with plastic wrap or a plastic dome to create a mini greenhouse.
Place the peat pots in a warm, bright location and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
When seedlings have several true leaves, and it’s time to transplant them into the garden or larger container, you can plant the whole peat pot into the soil, the peat will biodegrade in the soil over time.
Also, like before, using aluminum foil may not be suitable for all types of seeds, you can use other germination method like paper towel or soil germination method as well.
Worm castings, also known as vermicompost, are a rich and natural source of nutrients for plants. They can be used to germinate seeds in a few different ways. Here’s one method you can use:
Fill small seed trays or pots with worm castings, making sure to leave some room at the top for watering.
Sow the seeds on top of the worm castings, leaving enough space between them for the seedlings to grow.
Cover the seeds with a thin layer of worm castings or vermicompost.
Water the trays or pots well, making sure to keep the worm castings moist but not waterlogged.
Place the trays or pots in a warm, bright location and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Keep an eye on the seeds and when they start to germinate, thin them out if they are too crowded, and as they grow, give them enough light and space to develop properly.
When seedlings have several true leaves, and it’s time to transplant them into the garden or larger container, you can plant them directly into the soil, worm castings can act as a natural fertilizer and improve soil structure and fertility.
Worm castings are a great way to germinate seeds, as they provide a nutrient-rich environment for seedlings to grow in.
However, it’s important to note that worm castings can be quite strong and sometimes contains weed seeds too, so it’s always good to sterilize them before use. Also, make sure to use good quality seeds as well.
If you are in the need for seeds, check out the link here:
Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds
https://www.rareseeds.com/arikara-sunflower
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1 Comment
Nice, i haven't had good experience growing in seedling trays, so sensitive to transplanting. Any tricks on that for sunflowers?