Germination Testing Methods

[farmermike]

I was wondering how other people here do germination tests. I usually only test seeds that I suspect may sprout poorly (sometimes my suspicions are proven right; other times totally wrong), but I am finding the "paper towel in plastic bag" method very tedious and difficult -- and the seeds always want to stick to the wrong part of the paper towel when I unroll it to check them.

I am trying to figure out an easier way to do it, and I figured the wise people here may have some suggestions.


Forest Fire Tomato (at the bottom of the photo) has been the champ of my germ tests so far.

[billw]

I prefer to do it on filter paper in Petri dishes. Basically the same thing, just a little easier to handle, particularly if you have a lot of them.

You can also just do it in soil, which actually works better for some species.

[Joseph Lofthouse]

I use several of methods.

For big seeded things like beans, corn, squash, and melons, I love to sprout them in jars: Soak overnight. Then rinse twice a day until they sprout.



I like testing germination for many things in soil-mix.

[reed]

Sounds like the rolling up part may be the problem. I put a couple layers of paper towel on a saucer or a jar lid or a foam tray that meat comes on from the store and put a coffee filter on top. Shove it in a baggie and sit it on the windowsill or on the mantle above the stove depending on how warm I think it should be. I don't test many things unless it is old or I suspect some problem. Just for me I mostly test by planting.

[oldmobie]

I try to keep a few good sturdy deli trays with clear tops on hand. I think this one came from the grocery store with a sub sandwich. My favorite came from a party catered by SubWay. Using toilet paper as the "bed", folding it to one square by ½ square, I can test 18 seed lots at once. I ran medical tape around the edges and labeled 1-6 across and A,B,C up and down. I make a chart so I don't forget what the seeds are. (In the picture, I used a smaller tray with duct tape label.)

[steev]

Nothing OCD there, I'm sure; no offense meant; I just recognize a kindred spirit.

[reed]

I like that jar method, easier to watch them do their thing. Also looks like you don't need the paper towel or anything else for that matter, just water and and a little warmth.