Northern Queensland Permaculture

Earth Care, People Care, Fair Share

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--- wiki:seed_germinating [2023/05/01 16:30] – jaffa
+++ wiki:seed_germinating [2023/05/01 17:02] (current) – [Successful Seed Germination - Poem] jaffa
@@ Line 78: / Line 78: @@
   * Invite participants to share their experiences with seed germination
 ===Seed Preparation (20 minutes)===
-==Selecting seeds==
-  * Discuss suitable plant species for permaculture gardens in North Queensland
-  * Consider native species and popular permaculture plants
 ==Soaking seeds==
   * Explain when and why to soak seeds
   * Demonstrate how to soak seeds properly
+Soaking seeds can be a helpful technique to improve germination rates, especially for seeds with hard or thick seed coats.
+Soaking seeds helps to soften the seed coat, allowing moisture and oxygen to penetrate more easily, and triggers the germination process.
+Seeds that can benefit from soaking include beans, peas, corn, and some flower seeds.
+Soaking times vary depending on the seed type, but generally, seeds should be soaked for 4-12 hours in warm water before planting.
+It is important not to soak the seeds for too long, as this can cause them to rot or lose viability.
+To soak seeds properly, place the seeds in a container, cover them with tap water, and leave overnight (12 hrs max)
+After soaking, drain the water and rinse the seeds thoroughly before planting them in the seed-raising mix.
 ==Scarification==
   * Explain how to scarify seeds
   * Demonstrate scarification techniques
+Scarification is a technique used to break or soften the hard outer seed coat, which can prevent germination.
+Scarification is typically done manually, by scratching or nicking the seed coat using a file, sandpaper, or a sharp knife.
 ==Stratification (if applicable)==
   * Explain how to stratify seeds
   * Discuss when and why stratification is necessary
+Stratification is a technique used to simulate the natural winter conditions that some seeds require for germination.
+Stratification involves exposing the seeds to a period of cold and damp conditions, usually around 0-5°C, for several weeks before planting.
+To stratify seeds properly, place the seeds in a moist medium, such as peat moss, vermiculite, or sand, and store them in a plastic bag or container in the refrigerator for the recommended time.
+The length of stratification varies depending on the seed type, but generally, seeds should be stratified for 2-3 months.
+After stratification, remove the seeds from the cold and plant them in the seed-raising mix.
 ==Demonstration and practice==
   * Guide participants in preparing seeds for germination
 ===Sowing Seeds (30 minutes)===
 ==Choosing containers==
   * Discuss the pros and cons of seed trays, pots, or direct sowing
   * Explain how to choose the best container for each plant species
-==Filling containers with seed-raising mix==
-  * Demonstrate how to fill containers with seed-raising mix
+The three main options for seed containers are seed trays, pots, or direct sowing.
+Seed trays are convenient for growing multiple seeds in one container and can be used for transplanting seedlings later.
+Pots are ideal for larger seeds or plants that require more space and can be reused for multiple seasons.
+Direct sowing involves planting seeds directly in the ground or a larger container and can be useful for plants with delicate roots that do not transplant well.
+The best container for each plant species depends on factors such as seed size, root depth, and growth habit.
+In general, smaller seeds require shallower containers and larger seeds require deeper containers.
+Plants with taproots or longer roots may require deeper containers, while those with shallow roots can do well in shallower containers.
 ==Sowing seeds at the correct depth==
   * Explain the importance of sowing seeds at the right depth
   * Provide guidelines for sowing seeds of different sizes
+Sowing seeds at the correct depth is important for successful germination and seedling growth.
+The depth at which seeds should be sown varies depending on the seed size and type.
+In general, small seeds should be sown shallowly, while larger seeds should be sown deeper.
+__A good rule of thumb is to sow seeds at a depth of two to three times their diameter.__
+Seeds that are sown too shallowly may dry out too quickly or not have enough contact with the seed-raising mix to germinate.
+Seeds that are sown too deeply may have difficulty breaking through the surface and emerging as seedlings.
 ==Labeling containers==
   * Emphasize the importance of labeling containers
   * Demonstrate how to create clear and informative labels
+Labeling seed containers is important for keeping track of the seed type, sowing date, and other important information.
 ==Watering==
   * Explain how to use spray bottles to maintain moisture
   * Discuss how to prevent overwatering and damping-off
-==Demonstration==
+Watering is an important aspect of seed germination and seedling care.
+Overwatering can cause the seed-raising mix to become waterlogged and lead to damping-off, a fungal disease that can kill young seedlings.
+Underwatering can cause the seedlings to dry out and die.
+To maintain moisture levels, use a spray bottle to mist the seedlings or water from the bottom of the container.
+It is important not to water the seedlings too much or too often.
+The frequency of watering depends on factors such as the seed type, container size, and environmental conditions.
+A good rule of thumb is to water the seed
+====How to get perfect germination====
+  * Works well for seeds that can be handled with fingers easily (lettuce, or other small seeds may not work well with this method)
+  - Pre soak seeds in a small glass of room temperature water for no longer than 8 to 12 hours.
+  - In a transparent container with a lid, place paper towel and mist with water so the towel is damp but not wet
+  - Place the seeds in the paper towel, and cover with another paper towel - again misted with water to be damp but not wet
+  - Check the seeds each day, and when sprouted (usually a couple of days), transplant into ready seedling trays.
+{{:wiki:seed_germination_1.jpg?400|}}
+  * Example of pre-sprouting Pigeon Peas, before sowing (pictured above).
+====Successful Seed Germination - Poem====
+  * Permaculture enthusiasts in North Queensland.
+  * Get ready to learn about seed germination.
+  * From factors that influence, to seedling care.
+  * You'll become experts with knowledge to share.
+  * Raising your own seedlings is a wise choice.
+  * Selecting the best plants with your own voice.
+  * Variety and quality you'll have control.
+  * And it's cost-effective, saving you a toll.
+  * Temperature is important, don't let it kill.
+  * Discuss the ranges, with knowledge and skill.
+  * Moisture is key, but don't go too far.
+  * Mist the seeds, don't let them drown in a jar.
+  * Light triggers chlorophyll, necessary for growth.
+  * Different species require different approaches.
+  * Soil quality plays a crucial role.
+  * Seed-raising mix is key, it's a perfect goal.
+  * Fresh and viable seeds, don't use the old.
+  * A paper towel test, make sure it's told.
+  * Scarification or soaking, techniques to use.
+  * Stratification too, with cold winter views.
+  * Choose containers wisely, pots, trays or sow.
+  * Seed size, root depth, and growth habit to know.
+  * Sow seeds at the right depth, and label each one.
+  * Water with care, don't let them dry, or they're done.
+  * To get perfect germination, pre-soak in water.
+  * Damp paper towels, seeds covered, no falter.
+  * Transplant sprouted seeds to ready trays.
+  * And watch them grow, in many wonderful ways.

Northern Queensland Permaculture

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