A Comprehensive Guide To Germinating Cannabis Seeds In The Spring

Before you can enjoy the pleasure of having plentiful hauls of cannabis, there are several stages of cannabis growing that take precedence. Unless you are able to successfully germinate cannabis seeds, you won’t have a plant to harvest. In order to give your seeds a good start in their early days, you will need to follow these tips to better understand the process of germination. As a provider of indoor growing systems, Mass Hydroponics has acquired much knowledge on tending to cannabis seeds. Here is a comprehensive guide to germinating cannabis seeds in the spring.

What Is The Key To Germinating Cannabis Seeds?

Since it’s often overlooked, it’s very easy to assume both the vegetative and flowering stages of cannabis growth are the most critical component of the plant’s life cycle. However, unless you know what you’re doing, the chance of failure is prominent. Poor planning when it comes to germination can either make or break your next grow. Giving your cannabis seeds a good start to their journey for bulging buds is the best way to promote the growth of a healthy, radiant plant. 

There are a multitude of ways to give your cannabis plant a fighting chance when germinating your seeds. Every method we are about to mention has varying degrees of success. It’s important to understand that even if you have advanced growing expertise and the latest and greatest in equipment, you may still end up with a few failed seeds. This is a natural part that comes from dealing with a living organism.

What To Look For In Your Cannabis Seeds

Regardless of where you are sourcing your seeds from, it’s in your best interest to give them a thorough inspection before you begin planting. In most cases, all of your seeds will germinate, but poorer quality seeds will yield a weaker plant. Unfortunately, many users will not realize this until the plant is well into the vegetative and flowering stages. To avoid these disappointments, it’s better to use seeds that have a darker coloration as opposed to white or pale green seeds, which are more likely to fail. Even if dark seeds look slightly damaged, you should still proceed with planting them, anyway. There is a good chance they can still germinate, even if the outer shell has sustained some damage.

Temperature Plays An Important Role In Germination

Before we take a look at germination methods and indoor growing systems, there are a couple of golden rules that we need to address first. Of all the factors to consider, temperature ranks high as one of the most critical factors in caring for your seeds. Seeds will always seek out moisture, even if it’s a smaller amount. They use temperature as a sign that they need to do it. Here are some things to keep in mind:

• The temperature is between 22-25 degrees Celsius (71-77 Fahrenheit)

• Your growing environment should be damp or moist, but never wet

• The humidity range should be between 70-90%

• Seeds will do well with fluorescent lighting (Cool White Code 33)

• Cut back on the amount of seed handling that you do

• For hydroponic and rockwool plugs, the ideal PH value is between 5.8-6.2

Expected Germination Time

There are 3 core principles that will trigger the first small taproot to appear–warmth, moisture, and darkness. With the help from moisture, a single root will take shape before it slowly develops into the cannabis shape that we have come to know and love. Under the right conditions, seeds will start to develop within 12-36 hours when moisture is introduced. Timescales will vary. This is contingent on the state of the germination environment. 

Selecting Your Germination Method

When deciding which germination method to consider, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the methods. Here are some of the germination methods that are popular amongst users. 

Hydroponics

We are a big proponent of this growing method. Hydroponics is an ideal method for germinating seeds. As one of our premiere indoor growing systems, hydroponics is a more hygienic and efficient process in comparison to soil-based growing. Everything is automated in this method, allowing users to execute full control. It will also protect your plants from root rot or insects. For the best results from a hydroponic system, you will need grow media for the seed, a rock wool cube, a jiffy pellet or peat moss, pH down, pH test indicator, germination sponge, a propagator, heat mat, containers, rooting tonics, and propagation lights. 

Glass Of Water Approach

Arguably one of the least effective methods, the glass of water approach is relatively simple to facilitate. Beginner growers may opt to germinate their seeds in a glass of water by half-filling a glass or bowl with water that is approximately 22 degrees Celsius (71 Degrees Fahrenheit). Although it’s not the most effective approach, it still has its place for beginners.

Wet Kitchen Towel Method

Considered to be one of the most common methods of germination, the kitchen towel method comes in a variety of iterations. Very easy and with a high success rate, this method is one of our favorites for germinating seeds. Some growers will use cotton wool pads or absorbent pieces of paper.

Planting Directly Into Soil

Planting directly into soil can spare you from the task of having to move seeds for when they are at their most fragile. The first root tip is covered with microscopic filaments that can be easily damaged. For many, planting can be a much safer option.

Educating You On The Basics Of Indoor Growing Systems

Mass Hydroponics wants our consumers to be well-versed on how to properly cultivate and care for their cannabis seeds and plants. For more information on our indoor growing systems and practices, contact us today to get a hold of some high-quality products!