6 Ways to Germinate Cannabis Seeds

Explore our comprehensive video guide tailored specifically for home growers on the intricate process of germinating and planting cannabis seeds. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced cultivator, there’s valuable information packed into this video that can elevate your growing game. Our tutorial caters to both indoor and outdoor growing styles, providing insights and techniques suitable for various environments. 

Dive deep into the world of growing cannabis as we delve into the differences between autoflower and photoperiod seeds, offering tips and strategies tailored to each type. From seed selection to planting techniques, from optimal growing conditions to troubleshooting common issues, this video is your go-to resource for cultivating healthy and thriving cannabis plants at home.

The methods for germinating cannabis seeds include direct planting, water germination, rockwool cube, peat pellet, and paper towel. The paper towel method is one of the most user-friendly ways to germinate your seeds, and it’s what we recommend for first-time growers.

The Paper Towel Method

There are many ways to germinate cannabis seeds. Below, we’ve outlined one of the more user-friendly ways to germinate your seeds. Cannabis seeds require water, heat, and air to take root effectively. The most common and straightforward method for germination is to use paper towels saturated in water.

Equipment:

• Two clean plates
• Paper towels
• Humboldt Seed Company Seeds
• Label and pencil (optional)

1. Take four sheets of paper towels and thoroughly wet them with bottled water. The towels should be fully wet but shouldn’t have excess water dripping.
2. Lay two of the paper towels on the plate. Then, put the seeds at least one inch apart and cover them with the remaining two sheets of wet paper towels.
3. The seeds need a dark and protected space, take your second plate and flip it over to cover the first plate (similar to a dome).
4. Your seeds need to be kept warm (70-90°F).

Make sure you check on your seeds regularly. The paper towels need to remain moist. If they appear dry, you can mist them with water. After these steps have been completed, it’s usually several days before you start to see the seed take root, depending on your strain. You will see the top of the seed split and a single sprout appear when the seed has germinated.

The sprout you see is the tap root, which is the main stem of the plant. It is important to keep this area sterile. Do not touch the seed or the sprout as it begins to split.

Direct Planting Method

For growers who prefer a more natural approach, planting seeds directly into their grow medium is another viable option. This method eliminates the need to transplant seeds, reducing the risk of damage to the developing root system. It also reduces waste by eliminating the paper towel.

When direct sowing you should use a sterile growing medium that lacks nutrients. When seedlings germinate, they emerge with a set of leaves called cotyledons. These leaves are rounded and provide your seedlings with all the nutrition they need for their first week of life. By using a sterile growing medium, you can reduce the risk of damping off, a common fungal pathogen known to kill seedlings, and optimize your seedlings’ health.

Check out this YouTube video on how to make your own seed starting mix.

Equipment:

•  Humboldt Seed Company seeds
•  Soil or coco coir grow medium
• Small containers or seed blocker
• Nursery Tray with Dome
• Spray bottle

Instructions:

1. Moisten the grow medium using a spray bottle, ensuring it is damp but not waterlogged.
2. Plant the seed about ¼ inch deep into the medium, with the tap root down if it’s visible.
3. Place the container in a warm area with indirect light. Cannabis seedlings need dark to germinate but light as soon as their cotyledons emerge they need light. 
4. Mist the surface daily to keep the medium moist, but avoid overwatering.

Seeds will typically sprout within a week under these conditions.

Water Germination Method

Some growers prefer germinating weed seeds directly in water. This method helps determine which seeds are viable and ensures they absorb enough moisture to start the sprouting process.

Remember your seeds need warmth and darkness so placing your Solo cups of water in a cupboard above your stove or in a closet containing your hot water heater are good options if you live in a cooler climate. You may also consider using a heat mat to maintain an ideal germination temperature.

Equipment:

•  Glass or jar
• Distilled or Dechlorinated Water (Room Temperature)

Instructions:

1. Fill a glass with room-temperature distilled water.
2.  Place your cannabis seeds into the water and leave them in a dark, warm place for 24 to 48 hours.
3. Once you notice the seeds split and the tap root emerges, they are ready for planting in your grow medium.

Pro Tip: Seeds that float may not be viable, but give them time, as some seeds can take longer to sink and sprout.

Rockwool Cube Method

Rockwool cubes are a popular choice for hydroponic growers. This medium offers excellent water retention and aeration. These cubes are supposed to be sterile and can limit potential pathogens that can result in damping off. Unfortunately, they never break down, so using them means you will have rockwool cubes in your soil indefinitely.  

Equipment:

•  Rockwool cubes
• Distilled or Dechlorinated Water (Room Temperature)
• Tray with a humidity dome
•  Heat mat (optional)

Instructions:

1. Soak the rockwool cubes in water, adjusting the pH to around 5.5-6.0.
2. Place a seed in the center of each cube.
3. Set the cubes in a tray, cover them with a humidity dome, and place them in a warm area.
4. Keep the cubes moist and monitor daily. A heat mat can help maintain optimal temperatures between 70-80°F.

After a few days, you should see your seeds sprouting. Once they are established, transplant the cubes directly into your growing system.

Peat Pellet Method

Peat pellets, like these Jiffy pellets, are convenient alternatives for soil growers. They provide an easy-to-use medium that supports seed germination and minimizes transplant shock. They are biodegradable and will contribute organic matter to your soil. They are made from compressed peat moss, a common ingredient in potting mix. 

Peat moss takes a long time to grow and should be responsibly harvested to ensure sustainability. Brands like Jiffy can obtain RPP Certification, which stands for Responsibly Produced Peat. This ensures that peatland will be used, managed, and restored in responsible ways.  

Equipment:

• Peat pellets
• Tray with a humidity dome
•  Distilled or Dechlorinated Water

Instructions:

1.  Soak the pellets in water until they expand.
2.  Plant the seed ¼ inch deep into the pellet.
3. Place the pellets in a tray, cover them with a humidity dome, and keep them in a warm area.
4. Monitor daily to ensure they remain moist.

Once the seedlings have a few true leaves, the entire pellet can be transplanted into a larger container.

The Cannakan Method

This method for germinating cannabis seeds utilizes a new piece of equipment that maintains the ideal temperature and humidity while keeping your seeds in a dark space that can be placed anywhere. This seed-germinating canister allows you to germinate 8 different types of seeds at one time and can be reused indefinitely. Simply fill with water, plug in, and place seeds inside. Transplant once seeds have germinated after 24-48 hours. 

Cannabis seeds after 24 hours of germination with the paper towel method.

Best Marijuana Germination Temperature

Maintaining the right temperature is crucial for successful cannabis germination. For most cannabis strains, the ideal range is between 70-85°F. Temperatures below this range may slow germination, while excessively high temperatures, such as those above 95°F, can limit germination.

Pro Tip: A heat mat can help regulate temperature, especially for growers in cooler climates. Pair it with a humidity dome for the best results.

Tips for Successful Germination

Here are some additional tips to help ensure a high germination rate:

• Use high-quality seeds from reputable sources.
• Always use clean water and sterile equipment to avoid contamination.
• Keep seeds in a warm, dark environment.
• Avoid overwatering, which can drown the seeds or cause mold.
• Be patient. Some strains take longer than others to sprout.

FAQ

Do seeds germinate better in the dark?

Yes, cannabis seeds germinate best in dark environments. The absence of light signals the seed to begin sprouting cannabis plants.

Should you soak seeds in water before germinating?

Soaking seeds can help speed up the germination process, as it allows seeds to add water quickly. However, it’s not always necessary.

How long does cannabis take to sprout?

Cannabis seeds typically take between 24 hours to one week to sprout, depending on the strain and growing conditions.

What’s the best method for germinating cannabis seeds?

The best method depends on the grower, some prefer the paper towel method, while others prefer direct sowing. The important part is maintaining the correct temperature and humidity.