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CONTENTS

CONTENTS

Germination

The Germination Phase marks the beginning of the cannabis life cycle, during which seeds transition from dormancy to sprouting. This phase focuses on creating ideal environmental conditions to initiate root development.

Environmental and medium-specific parameters

Parameter Ideal range
Water pH (Soil) 5.7–6.0
Water pH (Coco Coir/Hydroponics) 5.5–6.0
EC Soil/Coco Coir (mS/cm)/Hydroponics (mS/cm) 0.3–0.6
Day/ Night Temperature (°C/°F) 22–26°C / 72–78°F
Root Zone Temperature (°C/°F) n/a
Leaf Surface Temperature (°C/°F) n/a
Related Humidity (RH%) 70–90%
VPD (kPa) 0.6–0.8
Optimal CO₂ (ppm) 400-600
PAR (μmol/m²/s) n/a
Lights Hrs/Day n/a
Light Intensity (%) n/a
Light Distance (cm/in) n/a
Substrate Moisture Moist but not waterlogged
Primary Nutrients n/a
Secondary Nutrients n/a
Micronutrients n/a
N-P-K n/a
LST n/a
HST n/a

Watering parameters

Medium Frequency Volume (ml/L) Runoff %
Soil Every 1–2 days 20–50 ml Minimal
Coco Coir Daily 50–70 ml Minimal
Hydroponics Continuous Maintain aeration n/a

Key activities

  1. Seed preparation
    Soak seeds in water for 12–24 hours until they sink. Transfer to damp paper towels, Rockwool cubes, or pre-moistened substrate.
  2. Hydration monitoring
    Maintain consistent substrate moisture without waterlogging.
  3. Temperature and humidity
    Keep day temperatures at 22–26°C (72–78°F) and humidity between 70–90%.
  4. Darkness
    Simulate soil conditions by maintaining darkness or dim lighting.
  5. Air exchange
    Briefly open propagation domes daily for fresh air.
  6. Root development
    Monitor seeds for healthy white taproots (0.5–1 cm) before transplanting.

What to watch out for

  1. Overwatering
    Can suffocate seeds, causing rot.
  2. Exposure to light
    Direct light can damage sprouting seeds.
  3. Handling damage
    Delicate taproots can be damaged by rough handling.
  4. Temperature fluctuations
    Stable conditions are critical for germination.

What to avoid

  1. Nutrient application
    Introducing nutrients can harm seeds. •
  2. Drying out
    Avoid letting the substrate dry completely, as it will hinder germination.
  3. Contamination
    Use sterile tools and substrates to prevent mould or pathogens.

Nutrient needs

No nutrients are required during germination. The seed’s stored energy is sufficient to initiate growth. Use only clean, pH-adjusted water.

End-of-phase goals

Milestones Seeds have sprouted with a taproot approximately 0.5–1 cm long.
Transplantation into the substrate is complete.
Checklist Seeds soaked and viable.
Taproots observed.
Transplant into the chosen medium performed successfully.

Frequently asked questions

A recap with plenty of useful information

Germination is the process where seeds sprout and develop their first roots, transitioning from dormancy to active growth.

Its autoflowering trait simplifies Germination typically takes 1–7 days, depending on seed quality and conditions.ight cycle management and reduces maintenance.

Keep temperatures between 22–26°C (72–78°F) for optimal germination.

Yes, soaking seeds for 12–24 hours in water helps soften the shell, improving germination rates.

Plant seeds 1–2 cm (0.4–0.8 inches) deep in a moist medium.

Maintain humidity levels at 70–90% to create a moist environment for sprouting.

No, seeds should be kept in darkness or low light conditions until they sprout.

Yes, ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged, and avoid compacting it over the seed.

Viable seeds are firm, dark-coloured, and sink when soaked in water for 12–24 hours.

They produce higher yields and allow more control over flowerYes, rockwool cubes provide a neutral and aerated medium ideal for sprouting seeds.

A humidity dome maintains high humidity levels, creating an ideal microclimate for germination.

Causes may include poor seed quality, incorrect moisture levels, or unstable temperatures.

StraiUse filtered or distilled water adjusted to the correct pH range to avoid impurities.

Yes, this is the first step in germination as the root begins to emerge.

Avoid overwatering and ensure good airflow around the germination area.

Yes, but sterilise them thoroughly between uses to prevent mould or pathogen buildup.

Handle sprouted seeds gently, holding them by the shell or cotyledons, and avoid touching the root.

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