It all starts with a seed: learn how to awaken it properly and ensure a healthy crop from day one
What is germination and why is it key to growing marijuana?
The first phase: from dormant seed to living plant
Germinating is the first step in the life cycle of any plant. In the case of cannabis, it involves getting the seed to “wake up,” breaking its shell, and revealing the first root, known as the radicle. This small gesture marks the beginning of everything that will come later.
How good germination influences subsequent development
Proper germination ensures a strong plant from the start. If done poorly—too much humidity, cold, or direct light—the seed can rot or not open. And if done halfway, the seedling may grow weak, which will affect the entire crop.
When to germinate your seeds: the perfect time
Ideal temperature and light to start the process
Seeds germinate best between 20 and 25°C. Complete darkness isn’t essential, but it is important to avoid direct light or sudden temperature changes. Indoors, you can control the conditions. Outdoors, spring is the best time.
Is it worth germinating in winter or summer?
In winter, it’s more difficult to maintain constant heat, and in summer, the problem can be excess humidity and extreme heat. As long as you control the environment, you can germinate at any time, but avoid extremes.
Most common methods for germinating cannabis seeds
Between damp napkins: the foolproof classic
Place the seed between two damp paper napkins (not dripping wet) in a container or plate. Cover with another plate or plastic wrap to retain moisture. This method allows you to see when the seed opens without handling it too much.
In a glass of water: quick but gentle
Soaking the seed in water for 12-24 hours can accelerate hydration. Then, transfer it to napkins or directly to the growing medium. This is useful if the seed has a very hard shell, but be careful not to let it sit in the water for too long.
Directly in soil or a jiffy bag: germination without transplanting
Placing the seed directly into the final growing medium or a jiffy bag avoids the stress of transplanting. It’s more natural, although it doesn’t always allow you to check whether it has germinated properly until the stem emerges.
Step by Step: How to Properly Germinate Seeds in Napkins
What You Need and How to Prepare the Environment
- Kitchen napkins or absorbent paper towels
- A Tupperware container or plate
- Dechlorinated water (preferably left to stand for 24 hours)
- A warm place without direct light
Wet the napkins well, place the seed between them, and cover them. Place them in a warm place: on top of a router, near a heat source, or inside a closet.
How Long Does It Take to Open and What to Do Next
Most germinate in 24 to 72 hours, although some take up to 7 days. When you see the small white root (about 1 to 2 cm), it’s time to carefully plant it, leaving the root facing down.
Common germination mistakes (and how to avoid them)
Excess water, direct light, or impatience
Many people think that more water is better: wrong. Seeds need moisture, not waterlogging. They also shouldn’t be exposed to direct light while they germinate. And the hardest part: patience. Opening the napkins constantly only stresses the process.
What if the seed doesn’t open? When to give up and when to persist
If after 7 days there’s no sign of life, the seed may be sterile. But before giving up, try changing the napkin, adding more water, or transferring it to a jiffy. Some germinate late.
First transplant after germination: how to do it without damaging the roots
The exact time to transfer it to the substrate
When the roots measure between 1 and 2 cm, it’s time to plant it. Don’t wait for it to grow much larger, as it will be more difficult to handle without damaging it.
Tips to prevent stress in its first few days
Make a small hole in the substrate, place the seed root-side down, and cover it gently. Moisten the soil, but don’t compact it. In the first few days, avoid strong lights and maintain a stable humidity level.
Germinating well means getting off to a good start: your crop will thank you for it.
Every cannabis crop starts with this small gesture. Germinating well isn’t complicated, but it requires care, patience, and understanding what each seed needs. The better you do here, the easier everything that comes next will be.