Planting hemp seeds correctly: how to germinate successfully right from the start
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Reading time 6 min
Contents
Introduction: Why germination is crucial for healthy hemp plants Quality of hemp seeds Creating the conditions for germination A comparison of germination methods 1. germination with kitchen paper (proven method) 2. direct germination in soil 3. germination in a glass of water When is the right time to plant? Planting hemp seeds correctly Choosing the right substrate Planting the seedling Creating optimal growing conditions Caring for young seedlings Common mistakes during germination and planting Important: patience pays off
Germination is the basis for growing hemp plants. Whether for private home cultivation or in a professional context:
Successful germination is crucial for the vitality and growth of the plant. If mistakes are made in this early phase, this has a negative effect on the overall development.
It is therefore important to know both the optimal conditions and the appropriate methods for germination and planting.
The right orientation: How around hemp seeds should be planted
When planting cannabis seeds, the correct orientation is crucial for healthy germination. Ideally, the root tip - the pointed end of the seed - should point downwards, as the root develops from it and can grow directly into the soil.
If the orientation is difficult to recognize or there is uncertainty, horizontal planting of the seed is recommended. This method enables the plant to find the optimum growing direction on its own. This method enables the plant to find the optimum growing direction on its own.
Optimal conditions for germination
For hemp seeds to germinate optimally, the following conditions should be met:
Temperature: The ideal temperature is 20 to 25 degrees Celsius.
Humidity: Between 70 and 90 percent.
Darkness: Germination occurs preferably without direct light.
Oxygen supply: Air circulation is important, but without strong draughts.
Cultivation soil: This is best suited to the needs of the young plants.
Step-by-step instructions: Planting cannabis seeds
Germination in a glass of water is particularly suitable for pre-swelling hard seeds and this is also where our Bud Voyage germination guarantor comes into play:
Avoid soaking the seeds for too long, otherwise they may rot.
Tip: Dilute 3% hydrogen peroxide in a 1:3 ratio with water and soak the seeds in it for a maximum of 12 hours. This method has a disinfecting effect, prevents mould growth, softens the seed coat and promotes germination.
This method has a disinfecting effect, prevents mold growth, softens the seed coat and promotes germination.
You can find even more tips and information about cannabis cultivation on our Instagram channel!
Alternative germination methods: paper towel method and directly into the soil
One possible method is the so-called "paper towel method". It is easy to implement and allows good control of the germination process:
Moisten two sheets of kitchen paper with water (do not soak).
Place the seeds in between and place between two plates.
Store in a warm, dark place.
Check daily that the paper is damp.
Advantages: easy control of germination
Disadvantages: risk of mold growth if hygiene is inadequate. There is also a high risk of dehydration!
The first sprouting roots usually appear after 24 to 72 hours. As soon as the root is about one centimeter long, the seedling can be planted in soil.
Direct germination in the soil
This method comes closest to germination in nature. The seed is placed directly into a small hole in moist potting compost:
Prepare a hole about 0.5-1 cm deep.
Plant the seeds and carefully cover with soil.
Press the soil down lightly and moisten.
Advantages: no repotting necessary
Disadvantages: Germination status difficult to see, therefore not suitable for our germination guarantee.
The soil should be kept constantly moist. The advantage of this method is that the seedling does not need to be transplanted. However, there is no direct visual control, which can be problematic if germination is poor.
However, there is no direct visual control, which can be problematic if germination is poor.
When is the right time to plant?
As soon as a seed has developed a white radicle of about 0.5 to 1 centimeter, the seedling should be planted.
Waiting too long will damage the sensitive root or cause it to stick to the damp paper. The young root should be handled with particular care as it is very sensitive to mechanical impact.
It should be handled with particular care as it is very sensitive to mechanical impact.
Avoid common mistakes when planting
Loose, fertilized potting compost is suitable for the first phase. This enables rapid root growth and at the same time protects the young root hairs.
Good drainage is important to avoid waterlogging. The pH value should be between 6.0 and 6.5.
Prepare a hole in the soil (approx. 0.5 cm deep).
Carefully insert the seedling with the root pointing downwards.
Fill in the soil loosely and press down lightly.
Moisten with a fine sprayer.
The first cotyledons break through the seed coat - a typical sign of successful germination.
After planting, the seedling needs constant conditions to grow into a strong young plant:
Light: 16-18 hours per day, e.g. with LED plant light
Temperature: 22-26 degrees Celsius
Humidity: around 60 to 80 percent
Air circulation: light air circulation fan promotes the strengthening of the handle
| Error | Impact |
|---|---|
| Planting too deep | Does not reach surface |
| Waterlogging | Root rot, mold growth |
| Too much fertilizer | Burns |
| Environment too cold | Delayed or absent germination |
| Insufficient light | "Go bad", become unstable |
Care after germination
After germination, hemp seedlings require special care in order to grow healthily. In contrast to plants in the flowering phase, they require a high light requirement of around 16 to 18 hours a day, but excessive direct sunlight should be avoided as it can dry out or burn the delicate little plants.
The substrate should always be slightly moist, but not wet - waterlogging can quickly lead to root rot.
In the initial phase, the nutrient content of the growing medium is usually sufficient; additional fertilization should only be started once the seedlings have developed their first true leaves.
As soon as the young plants become stronger and the roots penetrate the growing pot, they need to be carefully repotted in larger containers. It is important to disturb the sensitive roots as little as possible.
Here you can buy cannabis seeds with germination guarantee!
Conclusion: The path to a successful hemp plant
Successful germination of cannabis seeds requires care, patience and precise knowledge of the plant's needs during this sensitive phase. If the right conditions are created and proven methods are used, the foundation can be laid for a healthy, high-yielding plant. The effort put in during the first few days pays off in the long term with a strong and resilient plant.
Good luck with your cultivation!
How do I plant hemp seeds correctly?
Before hemp seeds are planted, they should first be germinated - for example using the water glass method. As soon as the root is about 1 cm long, the germinated seed can be carefully placed in a loose, moist growing medium. The root should be pointing downwards and the seed should be about 0.5 cm in the soil
How do you plant a seed?
A hemp seed should only be planted after germination. Once a root about 1 cm long has formed, the seed is placed in the soil with the root tip pointing downwards. This orientation supports the natural direction of growth and makes it easier for the young plant to take root in the soil.
How are hemp seeds planted?
After successful germination - visible on a root at least 1 cm long - the hemp seed is carefully placed with the root facing downwards about 0.5 - 1 cm deep in a moist, well-aerated substrate. The seed should be loosely covered with soil. It is important to ensure even humidity and to avoid direct sunlight.
How do you plant a seedling in the soil?
A seedling should be placed in the soil with the root pointing downwards and the seed head pointing upwards. This allows the young plant to develop naturally. If the seedling has already formed a small stem, it should be placed carefully and as straight as possible in the substrate without damaging the sensitive root.
Can cannabis seeds be planted the wrong way round?
Simple answer: Yes, theoretically you can plant hemp seeds the wrong way round. If the seedling is planted with the root tip pointing upwards, the root can still often find its way downwards. To make it easier for the plant to get started and to minimize the risk of growth problems, it is still better to plant it the right way round.
What is the best way to germinate hemp seeds?
Definitely the water glass method. This is particularly suitable for beginners as it enables the simplest germination process. This is the best way to see whether a root has formed. There is also no risk of drying out and, in combination with hydrogen peroxide, it gives the best results!
Here are our germination guide free of charge and get your cultivation journey off to the best possible start!
M.Sc. Agricultural Sciences | Expert in Cannabis & Crop Production | Co-founder of HANS Brainfood
Matthias Coufal studied Agricultural Sciences at the University of Hohenheim and Agricultural Marketing and Management in Weihenstephan. Already during his studies, he intensively and scientifically studied the plant hemp with a particular focus on sustainable cultivation, ingredients and potential uses.