19-03-2004, 11:12 AM
Quote:Originally posted by Bushbaby
Pombok, there are sometimes ways to speed up germination - smoke treatment of seeds can help, as can putting some varieties in the freezer or fridge for a week or two. It is worth checking where these species occur naturally and see if the hot or cold option would be better.
Lisa from Amishland Seeds suggested (after I had sown them) that I pre sprout all my seeds. It does make very good sense to do so. She said to soak the seed (any type) for an hour, then place in damp tissue paper in a plastic bag in a warm place until they sprout, then plant immediately. At least you have some guarantee of how many plants you will get and I will definitely be doing this with the remainder of my tomato and chilli seeds, and will try the okra the same way.
Smoke treatment? does this mean I have to sit in the conservatory (where all my seed trays are) chain smoking? If so the baas is going to do her nut, she's just cleaned all the windows!
The pre-sprouting idea is a really good one, especially as you say, you know how many plants you will end up with. I get it only works for larger sees though?