Why do seeds die (and how to avoid it)

Moringa oleifera seeds

Those of us who like to sow, we always try to do things well so that the seeds can germinate without having too many difficulties. And it is that, seeing a seedling grow, regardless of what species it belongs to, is a wonderful experience that makes us feel really good. But sadly, sometimes problems arise.

When this happens, we have to ask ourselves why do the seeds die. So we can prevent it from happening again.

Lack / excess of water

Seedling with seedlings

The seeds, although they contain water, cannot germinate if they are in a soil that is dry or waterlogged. Immediately after germination, that is, from the first second in which the first root emerges, needs to be hydrated for the plant to grow, but will not be able to do so if the humidity is too low or too high. Therefore, it is always necessary to ensure that the soil is slightly damp, being watered by immersion (by the tray method).

Mushrooms

Seed mushrooms

Fungi, such as the phytophthora, are the main enemies of the seeds. They appear when the earth is very humid for a long time, in a place where there is hardly any ventilation. To prevent and eliminate them, we must do treatments with copper-based fungicides, or we can sprinkle sulfur on the surface of the earth.

They are not viable

Bauhinia fruit and seeds

In general, once the flower is pollinated, the fruit begins to ripen inside which the ready seed will be found, which, after a while, will be ready to germinate. However, sometimes this is not the case. It may be that during the development of said seed it has lacked a little more water or light and that it has aborted.

We can know if this is what has happened by introducing it in a glass of water. If in 24 hours it has not sunk, it is most likely not viable. But, be careful, if it has a very hard shell, you have to sand it a bit because otherwise it may remain floating, even though it is useful.

Inadequate substrate

Seeds sown in a tray

Each plant has its own needs. Before sowing your seeds, it is very important that we inform ourselves about what type of substrate they needotherwise they will not germinate. For example, if we use peat moss in the seedbed of an olive tree, they will surely not germinate, since this is a tree that does not like the soil to be acidic. For more information, we recommend reading this guide.

Seeds can have many problems, but they are easy to avoid . I hope that now you can really have an excellent planting.

Why do seeds die (and how to avoid it)

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