How to Increase Seed Germination Rate For Indoor Hydroponic Garden

The process that turns tiny seeds into seedlings is called seed germination. It's the first step of a plant's life cycle on its way to maturity. As indoor gardener, we use grow pods instead of soil. It is common that we see nothing happens after we putting seeds into grow sponges. Seeds are fragile at this stage, and factors such as lighting, moisture, and temperature can have an enormous impact on their germination rates. Whenever you start a plant from seed, you are suggested to take the necessary steps — such as properly storing seeds, being soaked prior to germination, creating a humid environment, etc. — to create ideal germination conditions.

1. Store the seeds properly

Fresh seeds have better activity compared with long-term storage seeds. Molded seeds have lower germination rate. Store the seeds in a cool, dry and dark place in a sealed container.

2. Some seeds germinate better if you soak them first

For many seeds, priming improves the germination process by loosening the outer seed layer so the moisture and nutrients get to the seed embryo. This accelerates embryo development and promotes seedlings' well-being. Consider soaking cucumber, beetroot, pepper, tomato, and pumpkin seeds ahead of planting. To soak the seeds, place them in a tray and add just enough water to submerge them. Leave them underwater for anywhere a full day or two.

3. Ensure the grow sponge is sufficiently moist

Without sufficient moisture around them, they will quickly dry out and die. However, too much water can deprive the seeds of oxygen and even cause them to rot, which reduces their chances of sprouting successfully. Place the seeds on the inner wall instead of inner bottom of grow sponge hole is a good idea. Make sure the hydroponic garden has sufficient water in the water tank.

4. Cover grow dome to create a humid environment

You can keep the moisture in the grow pod by covering the grow dome. By placing a grow dome cover above seed, you prevent the moisture from evaporating and keep it at acceptable levels around the seed. Once the seeds sprout, you should get rid of the cover. That's because seedlings need good air circulation to stay healthy.

5. Determine the correct temperature

The ideal temperature for germination varies between seeds. For example, lettuce will sprout between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit, but they also tolerate freezing conditions of 32 degrees. The modest temperature range of 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit is agreeable to most vegetable and herb seeds.

6. Ensure light distance

Keep your seedling 2-4 inches from the LED light hood. When your plants get larger they can get away with 4-6 inches of distance.

7. Prevent mold

Mold on grow sponges can be a frustrating setback. Mold thrives in environments with excessive moisture. If the humidity levels in your hydroponic setup are consistently high, don't use grow domes and use a small air fan to accelerate air circulation. Always keep the grow deck clean and remove dead leaves.

If the seeds failed to germinate, use new seeds and try again. You can use your own seeds.