Germination Information
The challenge of growing out-of-the ordinary seeds can be extremely rewarding!
Sometimes we get questions about germination, and we're happy to help! We think it's wonderful that gardeners are looking to do a great job caring for their seeds!
Some seeds can simply be planted right away and grow quickly, and others need some extra TLC. We put easy to follow growing information both on the product page, and also directly on the seed packages!
Here are some tips, many that aren't always commonly available:
Plant perennial and tropical seeds right away
Perennial and tropical seeds should be planted right away, as germination rates are best when the seeds are fresh. We recommend indoor planting, as this allows us to control things like moisture, temperature, and protect the seeds from being eaten, washed away, or overgrown with weeds, ultimately providing the best chance for your seeds to grow.
Some perennial seeds have evolved to require a cold-moist period before they will germinate. Cold stratification can be safely replicated by planting your seeds in a small pot, water, cover with plastic, and place them in a fridge.
Once growing and sizeable, your plants can be planted outdoors in spring or summer, up until frost.
Plant annual seeds in late winter or spring
Annual seeds can be started early indoors, and planted outdoors once the weather is warm enough. Be sure to check temperature requirements (heat mat or cool temperatures), surface sowing if they require light, and germination times. If you receive your seeds in fall or winter, the seeds can be stored in the fridge until spring. We recommend growing all of the seeds in the first season.
We recommend using a sterile seed-start mix or other sterile soil mix, as it is free of fungus and contaminants that can harm fragile seedlings. These mixes are generally formulated with the correct PH (acidity of the soil). Seed-start mix is also free of weed seeds (unlike garden soil), so when something grows you will know that it is the seeds that you planted.
Have a growing container that has holes in the bottom for drainage. This helps prevent seeds and seedlings from sitting in too much moisture and rotting. Sometimes this is seen when young seedlings suddenly fall over and parish.
Never let the soil completely dry out while the seeds are germinating. This can end the germination process.
Seeds can germinate at different times, even from the same batch. Generally there is a suggested range of time that seeds can germinate within, which we put on the seed packs. Some seeds might grow early, and other late. This is completely natural, especially for seeds that have a longer germination times.
We put individualized growing information on each seeds packet, and on each product online. We hope you enjoy your new seeds!
The Ferri Seeds Team
