Running an agricultural business involves many meticulous practices. Currently, we are germination testing poppy and celosia seeds. Here’s how we do it:
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Preparation: Seeds are scattered on a wet paper towel, wrapped, placed in a labeled plastic bag, and set on a heat mat.
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Observation: In 2-3 days, we check for sprouts.
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Counting: Using a magnifying glass, we count the total and sprouted seeds to calculate the germination rate.
Lettuce, Zinnias, Statice, Dusty Miller, and Salpiglossis will follow next.
I’m grateful for this practice, there were some poppy seeds last year I didn’t put up for sale, because of the super low germination rate - in the 20% band. Not good enough.
It’s important to know that some seeds have lower germination rate averages than others - for example, anything in the 60% band is ok for poppies - because there are so many seeds you provide (hundreds). But for zinnias or tomatoes for example, where you’re handing out exact counts of seeds, we aim for at least 80% or better. Last year several tomato varieties had 100% germination!
Thank you for supporting Sugar Moon Gardens. We are dedicated to providing you with the best quality plants and seeds!
